1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 25 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 220 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 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Austin Ambassador | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Ambassador | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
