1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 1973 Fiat 132
To start off, 1982 Austin Ambassador is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Fiat 132. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Fiat 132 would be higher. At 1,754 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Fiat 132 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Fiat 132 (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Fiat 132 should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 110 kg more than 1973 Fiat 132.
Because 1973 Fiat 132 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 1973 Fiat 132. 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, 1973 Fiat 132 (147 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1973 Fiat 132 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Austin Ambassador | 1973 Fiat 132 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Ambassador | 132 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1754 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2560 mm |
