1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 2005 Vauxhall VX220
To start off, 2005 Vauxhall VX220 is newer by 23 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Vauxhall VX220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Vauxhall VX220 (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Vauxhall VX220 should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 329 kg more than 2005 Vauxhall VX220.
Because 2005 Vauxhall VX220 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 2005 Vauxhall VX220. 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, 2005 Vauxhall VX220 (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Vauxhall VX220 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Austin Ambassador | 2005 Vauxhall VX220 | |
| Make | Austin | Vauxhall |
| Model | Ambassador | VX220 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 876 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2340 mm |
