1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 1977 ZIL 117
To start off, 1983 Austin Ambassador is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 ZIL 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 ZIL 117 would be higher. At 6,959 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 ZIL 117 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 ZIL 117 (296 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 ZIL 117 should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 ZIL 117 weights approximately 1745 kg more than 1983 Austin Ambassador. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 ZIL 117 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 1977 ZIL 117. 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, 1977 ZIL 117 (570 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 439 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1977 ZIL 117 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Ambassador | 1977 ZIL 117 | |
| Make | Austin | ZIL |
| Model | Ambassador | 117 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 6959 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 2950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 5730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2080 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3310 mm |
