1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2012 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2012 Nissan Altima 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 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 124 kg more than 2012 Nissan Altima.
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 Nissan Altima, 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, 2012 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Ambassador | 2012 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | AMC | Nissan |
| Model | Ambassador | Altima |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1636 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2675 mm |
