1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 2006 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2006 Smart ForFour is newer by 22 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, 2006 Smart ForFour (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 115 kg more than 2006 Smart ForFour.
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, 2006 Smart ForFour (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 2006 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Austin | Smart |
| Model | Ambassador | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
