1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 25 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1627 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ambassador | C |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 2832 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2770 mm |
