1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 29 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (169 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (91 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 170 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 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. 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, 2011 BMW 120 (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (155 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Austin Ambassador | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Ambassador | 120 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2670 mm |
