1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2010 Kia Optima
To start off, 2010 Kia Optima is newer by 38 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 45 more horse power than 2010 Kia Optima. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 2010 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 371 kg more than 2010 Kia Optima. 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, 2010 Kia Optima, 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 199 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Kia Optima. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2010 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2010 Kia Optima 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 | 2010 Kia Optima | |
Make | AMC | Kia |
Model | Ambassador | Optima |
Year Released | 1972 | 2010 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5899 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 220 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 428 Nm | 229 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1803 kg | 1432 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4801 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1806 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1481 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2720 mm |