1998 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 AMC Ambassador
To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 26 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 119 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (136 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Ambassador weights approximately 478 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo 156, 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 (469 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1972 AMC Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 156. 1972 AMC Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 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:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1972 AMC Ambassador | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | AMC |
| Model | 156 | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2386 cc | 6571 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 469 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 105.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 93.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1828 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3110 mm |
