1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (91 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 375 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 Z4 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 Z4. 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 Z4 (406 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (155 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 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 Z4 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Ambassador | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2497 mm |
