1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 2012 Ford Focus
To start off, 2012 Ford Focus 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Focus (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Focus weights approximately 132 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, 2012 Ford Focus (198 Nm @ 4450 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador. 2012 Ford Focus 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. 2012 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 2012 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | Ambassador | Focus |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4450 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1337 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4359 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1824 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2649 mm |
