1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 2009 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Volvo S80 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 4,414 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S80 (311 HP @ 5950 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (91 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S80 weights approximately 527 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 Volvo S80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Austin Ambassador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 will offer significantly more control. 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 Volvo S80 (440 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (155 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Austin Ambassador. 2009 Volvo S80 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 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Austin Ambassador | 2009 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | Ambassador | S80 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 4414 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5950 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2840 mm |
