1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 2005 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2005 Opel Meriva is newer by 21 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 1,697 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Austin Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Meriva (99 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Meriva weights approximately 160 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, 2005 Opel Meriva (240 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 2005 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | Ambassador | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1684 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
