1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 2004 Ford Econoline
To start off, 2004 Ford Econoline 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 4,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Econoline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Econoline (197 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Econoline should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Econoline weights approximately 1120 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 2004 Ford Econoline 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 Ford Econoline. 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 Ford Econoline (338 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Econoline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Ambassador | 2004 Ford Econoline | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | Ambassador | Econoline |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 4195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 2325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 5390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 2060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3510 mm |
