1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 25 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 37 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador. 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Ambassador | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | Golf |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2590 mm |
