1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 2004 Donkervoort D8
To start off, 2004 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 21 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 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Donkervoort D8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 580 kg more than 2004 Donkervoort D8.
Because 2004 Donkervoort D8 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 2004 Donkervoort D8. 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, 2004 Donkervoort D8 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Ambassador | 2004 Donkervoort D8 | |
| Make | Austin | Donkervoort |
| Model | Ambassador | D8 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2310 mm |
