1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 1991 BMW M12
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Austin Ambassador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Austin Ambassador would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador.
Because 1991 BMW M12 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 1991 BMW M12. 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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 319 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 1991 BMW M12 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Ambassador | M12 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2610 mm |
