1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 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 107 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
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 Mazda 3, 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 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | AMC | Mazda |
| Model | Ambassador | 3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2639 mm |
