1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2009 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Volvo S80 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 6,571 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S80 (311 HP @ 5950 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 230 kg more than 2009 Volvo S80.
Because 2009 Volvo S80 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 Volvo S80 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 (469 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo S80. (440 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2009 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | AMC | Volvo |
| Model | Ambassador | S80 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 4413 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5950 RPM |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 105.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1828 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2840 mm |
