1976 Ford Cortina vs. 1983 Austin Ambassador

To start off, 1983 Austin Ambassador is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Cortina 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 27 more horse power than 1976 Ford Cortina. (56 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Austin Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 155 kg more than 1976 Ford Cortina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1976 Ford Cortina 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 1976 Ford Cortina. 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Cortina. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Cortina. 1983 Austin Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1976 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1976 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Austin Ambassador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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