1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 23 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 446 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, 2007 Volvo S40 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | Ambassador | S40 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1651 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
