1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 1978 Mazda 121
To start off, 1983 Austin Ambassador is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda 121 (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 75 kg more than 1978 Mazda 121.
Because 1978 Mazda 121 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 1978 Mazda 121. 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, 1978 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Austin Ambassador | 1978 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Austin | Mazda |
Model | Ambassador | 121 |
Year Released | 1983 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 86 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 131 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |