1972 AMC Ambassador vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 41 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, 2013 Kia Optima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 244 kg more than 2013 Kia Optima.
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, 2013 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, 2013 Kia Optima (365 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 AMC Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
1972 AMC Ambassador | 2013 Kia Optima | |
Make | AMC | Kia |
Model | Ambassador | Optima |
Year Released | 1972 | 2013 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4981 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 332 Nm | 365 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 87.3 mm | 86 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 1538 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4845 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2795 mm |