1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 1978 ZIL 4104
To start off, 1983 Austin Ambassador is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 ZIL 4104. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 ZIL 4104 would be higher. At 7,695 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 ZIL 4104 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 ZIL 4104 (311 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 ZIL 4104 should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 ZIL 4104 weights approximately 2131 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 1978 ZIL 4104 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 ZIL 4104. 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 ZIL 4104 (608 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 477 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 ZIL 4104 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador. 1978 ZIL 4104 has automatic transmission and 1983 Austin Ambassador has manual transmission. 1983 Austin Ambassador will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 ZIL 4104 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Ambassador | 1978 ZIL 4104 | |
| Make | Austin | ZIL |
| Model | Ambassador | 4104 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 7695 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 608 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 3336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 5750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2090 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3340 mm |
