1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 27 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 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Austin Ambassador. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1982 Austin Ambassador has manual transmission. 1982 Austin Ambassador will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1982 Austin Ambassador | 2009 Kia Optima | |
Make | Austin | Kia |
Model | Ambassador | Optima |
Year Released | 1982 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1698 cc | 2359 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 176 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 131 Nm | 229 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2730 mm |