1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2009 Honda Element
To start off, 2009 Honda Element 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 4,981 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Element (167 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Element weights approximately 168 kg more than 1972 AMC Ambassador. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Honda Element 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 Honda Element 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 (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Honda Element. (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Honda Element.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2009 Honda Element | |
| Make | AMC | Honda |
| Model | Ambassador | Element |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 2354 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2580 mm |
