1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 1975 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1984 Austin Ambassador is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Triumph Spitfire would be higher. At 1,697 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Austin Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Austin Ambassador (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Austin Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 390 kg more than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 Triumph Spitfire 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 1975 Triumph Spitfire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1984 Austin Ambassador (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Triumph Spitfire. (100 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1984 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 1975 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Austin | Triumph |
| Model | Ambassador | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2110 mm |
