1956 Bristol 405 vs. 1984 Austin Ambassador
To start off, 1984 Austin Ambassador is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Bristol 405. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Bristol 405 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Bristol 405 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Bristol 405 (101 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Bristol 405 should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Bristol 405 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1984 Austin Ambassador. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Bristol 405 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 1956 Bristol 405. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1956 Bristol 405 (152 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1956 Bristol 405 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador. 1984 Austin Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1956 Bristol 405 has manual transmission. 1956 Bristol 405 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Austin Ambassador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Bristol 405 | 1984 Austin Ambassador | |
| Make | Bristol | Austin |
| Model | 405 | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2680 mm |
