1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 2005 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2005 Smart ForTwo 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, 1984 Austin Ambassador (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2005 Smart ForTwo. (60 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Austin Ambassador should accelerate faster than 2005 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 390 kg more than 2005 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Smart ForTwo 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 2005 Smart ForTwo. 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, 1984 Austin Ambassador (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Smart ForTwo. (95 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1984 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 2005 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Austin | Smart |
| Model | Ambassador | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 1820 mm |
