1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 2012 Dodge Challenger
To start off, 2012 Dodge Challenger is newer by 28 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Challenger (376 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 293 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 647 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 2012 Dodge Challenger 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 2012 Dodge Challenger. 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, 2012 Dodge Challenger (555 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 424 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 2012 Dodge Challenger | |
| Make | Austin | Dodge |
| Model | Ambassador | Challenger |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 555 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 5022 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1923 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2946 mm |
