1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (91 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 185 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (155 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Austin Ambassador | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2651 mm |
