1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2009 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2009 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 37 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 6,571 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Ambassador (255 HP) has 55 more horse power than 2009 Buick LaCrosse. (200 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 2009 Buick LaCrosse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 239 kg more than 1972 AMC Ambassador.
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, 2009 Buick LaCrosse, 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 (468 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Buick LaCrosse. (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Buick LaCrosse.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2009 Buick LaCrosse | |
| Make | AMC | Buick |
| Model | Ambassador | LaCrosse |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 1946 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2810 mm |
