1969 Abarth 1300 vs. 1982 Austin Ambassador
To start off, 1982 Austin Ambassador is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Abarth 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Abarth 1300 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Austin Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Abarth 1300 (123 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (91 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Abarth 1300 should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 579 kg more than 1969 Abarth 1300.
Because 1969 Abarth 1300 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 1969 Abarth 1300. 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 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Abarth 1300. (130 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 1982 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Abarth 1300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Abarth 1300 | 1982 Austin Ambassador | |
| Make | Abarth | Austin |
| Model | 1300 | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1280 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 636 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2100 mm | 2680 mm |
