1948 Austin 16 vs. 1982 Austin Ambassador
To start off, 1982 Austin Ambassador is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Austin 16. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Austin 16 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 1948 Austin 16 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Austin Ambassador (91 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1948 Austin 16. (63 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Austin Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1948 Austin 16. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Austin 16 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1982 Austin Ambassador.
Because 1948 Austin 16 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 1948 Austin 16. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Austin Ambassador, 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, 1982 Austin Ambassador (155 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Austin 16. (146 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1982 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Austin 16.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Austin 16 | 1982 Austin Ambassador | |
| Make | Austin | Austin |
| Model | 16 | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2680 mm |
