1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 1989 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1989 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Austin Ambassador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Austin Ambassador 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 15 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Austin Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 275 kg more than 1989 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Austin Ambassador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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 1989 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1982 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Samurai.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Austin Ambassador | 1989 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Austin | Suzuki |
| Model | Ambassador | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2490 mm |
