1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 5,899 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Ambassador (220 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 453 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 AMC Ambassador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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 (428 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Jetta | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5899 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 428 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1803 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2580 mm |
