1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 2009 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 1102 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, 2009 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Ambassador | 2009 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | Passat |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2720 mm |
