1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 171 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 291 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 308 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1782 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2578 mm |
