1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 1956 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1982 Austin Ambassador is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Austin Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Austin Ambassador (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Austin Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 465 kg more than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Volkswagen Beetle 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 Volkswagen Beetle. 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 (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (88 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1982 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1982 Austin Ambassador | 1956 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | Ambassador | Beetle |
Year Released | 1982 | 1956 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 38 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Torque | 131 Nm | 88 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 740 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |