1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 40 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, 2012 BMW X3 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 8 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 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 AMC Ambassador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 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, 2012 BMW X3 (380 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | AMC | BMW |
| Model | Ambassador | X3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2810 mm |
