1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 2012 Lada Niva
To start off, 2012 Lada Niva is newer by 30 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Austin Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Austin Ambassador (91 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2012 Lada Niva. (81 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Austin Ambassador should accelerate faster than 2012 Lada Niva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lada Niva weights approximately 70 kg more than 1982 Austin Ambassador.
Because 2012 Lada Niva 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, 2012 Lada Niva 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, 1982 Austin Ambassador (155 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lada Niva. (128 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1982 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lada Niva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Austin Ambassador | 2012 Lada Niva | |
| Make | Austin | Lada |
| Model | Ambassador | Niva |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1690 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2210 mm |
