1976 Holden Sunbird 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 Holden Sunbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Sunbird would be higher. At 3,298 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Holden Sunbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Holden Sunbird (108 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Holden Sunbird should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 30 kg more than 1976 Holden Sunbird.
Because 1976 Holden Sunbird 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 Holden Sunbird. 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, 1976 Holden Sunbird (259 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Sunbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador. 1983 Austin Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1976 Holden Sunbird has manual transmission. 1976 Holden Sunbird 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Holden Sunbird | 1983 Austin Ambassador | |
| Make | Holden | Austin |
| Model | Sunbird | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3298 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 259 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2680 mm |
