1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 2009 Nissan Xterra
To start off, 2009 Nissan Xterra 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Xterra (262 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Xterra should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 1111 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 2009 Nissan Xterra 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 2009 Nissan Xterra. 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, 2009 Nissan Xterra (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Xterra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Austin Ambassador | 2009 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Austin | Nissan |
| Model | Ambassador | Xterra |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 2316 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
