1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 525 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 Volkswagen T5 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 Volkswagen T5 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 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Ambassador. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen T5 has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 Volkswagen T5 | |
Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
Model | Ambassador | T5 |
Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4981 cc | 2459 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 172 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 332 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 2307 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4900 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 2000 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1910 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 3010 mm |