1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 2006 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2006 Toyota MR2 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 1,792 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota MR2 (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 140 kg more than 2006 Toyota MR2.
Because 2006 Toyota MR2 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 2006 Toyota MR2. 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, 2006 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 2006 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Austin | Toyota |
| Model | Ambassador | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2460 mm |
