1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 17 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (180 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 108 kg more than 1984 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, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 2001 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1313 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2520 mm |
