1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2012 GMC Sierra
To start off, 2012 GMC Sierra 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 6,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Sierra (364 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Sierra weights approximately 877 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 GMC Sierra 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, 2012 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra (506 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2012 GMC Sierra | |
| Make | AMC | GMC |
| Model | Ambassador | Sierra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4981 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 364 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 506 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 2659 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 5710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 3380 mm |
