1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 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 1,697 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Austin Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 55 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador. 2008 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Ambassador | 3 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
