1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 1956 Austin A 40
To start off, 1983 Austin Ambassador is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Austin Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Austin Ambassador (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1956 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Austin Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1956 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 155 kg more than 1956 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Austin A 40 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 1956 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1983 Austin Ambassador (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Austin A 40. (100 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 1983 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Ambassador | 1956 Austin A 40 | |
| Make | Austin | Austin |
| Model | Ambassador | A 40 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2530 mm |
