1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2009 Fiat Idea
To start off, 2009 Fiat Idea 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 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 151 more horse power than 2009 Fiat Idea. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 2009 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 653 kg more than 2009 Fiat Idea. 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, 2009 Fiat Idea, 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 (428 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Fiat Idea. (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Fiat Idea. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2009 Fiat Idea has manual transmission. 2009 Fiat Idea 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 | 2009 Fiat Idea | |
| Make | AMC | Fiat |
| Model | Ambassador | Idea |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5899 cc | 1246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 428 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1803 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2520 mm |
