1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 19 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan (148 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 469 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, 2003 Volkswagen Sharan (210 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan has automatic transmission and 1984 Austin Ambassador has manual transmission. 1984 Austin Ambassador will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Sharan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 2003 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1674 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2850 mm |
