1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
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 RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,963 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 355 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-3 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 RX-3. 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 RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-3 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 RX-3 | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Ambassador | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2320 mm |
