1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1625 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.
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 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Austin Ambassador | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ambassador | A |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2570 mm |
