1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2012 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Xterra 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 4,981 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan Xterra (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 218 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 Nissan Xterra 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 Nissan Xterra 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 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Nissan Xterra 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 Xterra | |
Make | AMC | Nissan |
Model | Ambassador | Xterra |
Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4981 cc | 4000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 261 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 332 Nm | 381 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 2000 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4539 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1849 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1902 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2700 mm |