1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 1960 Austin A 55
To start off, 1983 Austin Ambassador is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Austin A 55 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 32 more horse power than 1960 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4350 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Austin Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1960 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 83 kg more than 1960 Austin A 55. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 Austin A 55 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 1960 Austin A 55. 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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Austin A 55. (111 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 1983 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Ambassador | 1960 Austin A 55 | |
| Make | Austin | Austin |
| Model | Ambassador | A 55 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1960 |
| 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 | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1122 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2530 mm |
