1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1983 Austin Ambassador is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 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 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Austin Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 335 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 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 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 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 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (108 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1983 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Austin Ambassador | 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | Ambassador | Karmann-Ghia |
Year Released | 1983 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1584 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 131 Nm | 108 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 870 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2430 mm |