1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 1997 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 1997 TVR Chimaera is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Austin Ambassador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Austin Ambassador would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 180 kg more than 1997 TVR Chimaera.
Because 1997 TVR Chimaera 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 1997 TVR Chimaera. 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, 1997 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Ambassador | 1997 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Austin | TVR |
| Model | Ambassador | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2290 mm |
