1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 1968 Lotus Europa
To start off, 1982 Austin Ambassador is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Europa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Europa 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 7 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Europa. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Austin Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 595 kg more than 1968 Lotus Europa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Lotus Europa 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 1968 Lotus Europa. 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 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1982 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Austin Ambassador | 1968 Lotus Europa | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | Ambassador | Europa |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1470 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1080 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2340 mm |
