1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 20 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Austin Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (91 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 250 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (260 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (155 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Austin Ambassador | 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ambassador | C |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2720 mm |
