1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 1999 Lotus M250
To start off, 1999 Lotus M250 is newer by 17 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lotus M250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus M250 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (91 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus M250 should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 265 kg more than 1999 Lotus M250.
Because 1999 Lotus M250 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 1999 Lotus M250. 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, 1999 Lotus M250 (321 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (155 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1999 Lotus M250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Austin Ambassador | 1999 Lotus M250 | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | Ambassador | M250 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1180 mm |
