1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima 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 55 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (200 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 366 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Kia Optima, 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 (469 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | AMC | Kia |
| Model | Ambassador | Optima |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1828 kg | 1462 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2797 mm |
