1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 1974 Opel Manta
To start off, 1983 Austin Ambassador is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Opel Manta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Opel Manta 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 24 more horse power than 1974 Opel Manta. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Austin Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Manta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 275 kg more than 1974 Opel Manta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Opel Manta 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 1974 Opel Manta. 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Manta. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Manta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Ambassador | 1974 Opel Manta | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | Ambassador | Manta |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2440 mm |
