1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 28 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 362 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | Passat |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4775 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1516 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
