1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 2009 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 26 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (186 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 420 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Because 2009 Lotus Elise 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 2009 Lotus Elise. 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, 2009 Lotus Elise (133 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Austin Ambassador | 2009 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Austin | Lotus |
Model | Ambassador | Elise |
Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 186 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7800 RPM |
Torque | 131 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 785 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3800 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2310 mm |