1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 491 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Traverse.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (361 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | AMC | Chevrolet |
| Model | Ambassador | Traverse |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 3599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1636 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 3030 mm |
