1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 127 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Ambassador | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2340 mm |
