1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AMC Ambassador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AMC Ambassador would be higher. At 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Ambassador (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 394 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 AMC Ambassador is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 AMC Ambassador. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1972 AMC Ambassador (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 AMC Ambassador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1636 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2590 mm |
