1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 1972 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 1983 Austin Ambassador is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,393 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Datsun 240Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Datsun 240Z (151 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Datsun 240Z should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 137 kg more than 1972 Datsun 240Z.
Because 1972 Datsun 240Z 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 1972 Datsun 240Z. 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, 1972 Datsun 240Z (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 Datsun 240Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador. 1972 Datsun 240Z has automatic transmission and 1983 Austin Ambassador has manual transmission. 1983 Austin Ambassador will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Datsun 240Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Ambassador | 1972 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Austin | Datsun |
| Model | Ambassador | 240Z |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2300 mm |
