1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic 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 5,897 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Civic (198 HP) has 3 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (195 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 390 kg more than 2012 Honda Civic.
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 Honda Civic, 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 (403 Nm) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (193 Nm). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2012 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2012 Honda Civic 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 | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | AMC | Honda |
| Model | Ambassador | Civic |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5897 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 198 HP |
| Torque | 403 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 11:01 |
| Top Speed | 169 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1657 kg | 1267 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4276 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1445 mm |
