1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 2011 BMW 320
To start off, 2011 BMW 320 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 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador.
Because 2011 BMW 320 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 320. 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 320 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 320 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 320 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Ambassador | 320 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2810 mm |
