1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1972 AMC Ambassador
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 25 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1972 AMC Ambassador. (150 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1972 AMC Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 412 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
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, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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 (332 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider has manual transmission. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider 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:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1972 AMC Ambassador | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | AMC |
| Model | Spider | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 332 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1782 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 3110 mm |
