1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 39 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, 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 535 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit.
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, 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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 (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2011 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2580 mm |
