1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 5,897 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (195 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 432 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 Mercedes-Benz CL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (403 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | AMC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ambassador | CL |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5897 cc | 5459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 403 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1657 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2960 mm |
