1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1102 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 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1984 Austin Ambassador. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | T5 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3010 mm |
