1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 1978 Volvo 264

To start off, 1982 Austin Ambassador is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 264. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 264 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 264 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 264 (149 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (91 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 264 should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 264 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1982 Austin Ambassador. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Volvo 264 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 1978 Volvo 264. 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, 1978 Volvo 264 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (155 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 264 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Austin Ambassador.

Compare all specifications:

1982 Austin Ambassador 1978 Volvo 264
Make Austin Volvo
Model Ambassador 264
Year Released 1982 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1994 cc 2664 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 91 HP 149 HP
Engine RPM 4900 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 155 Nm 218 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 3000 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1215 kg 1420 kg
Vehicle Length 4560 mm 4900 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2650 mm