1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu 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 6,571 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Ambassador (255 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (252 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 (468 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | |
| Make | AMC | Chevrolet |
| Model | Ambassador | Malibu |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4872 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2852 mm |
