1951 Austin A 40 vs. 1983 Austin Ambassador
To start off, 1983 Austin Ambassador is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Austin Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Austin Ambassador (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1951 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Austin Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1951 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 235 kg more than 1951 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1951 Austin A 40 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 1951 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1983 Austin Ambassador (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Austin A 40. (80 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1983 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Austin A 40 | 1983 Austin Ambassador | |
| Make | Austin | Austin |
| Model | A 40 | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2680 mm |
