1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 2,393 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara (164 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 241 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 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1983 Austin Ambassador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Ambassador | 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Austin | Suzuki |
| Model | Ambassador | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3865 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1695 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2440 mm |
