1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 18 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 2,616 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 133 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.
Because 2002 Mazda RX-8 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
1984 Austin Ambassador | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Austin | Mazda |
Model | Ambassador | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1984 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1697 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 238 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8200 RPM |
Torque | 131 Nm | 211 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1338 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |