1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 2008 BMW 318
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 24 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 190 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.
Because 2008 BMW 318 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 2008 BMW 318. 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, 2008 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador. 2008 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1984 Austin Ambassador has manual transmission. 1984 Austin Ambassador will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 2008 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Ambassador | 318 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2730 mm |
