1996 Dodge Caravan vs. 1983 Austin Ambassador
To start off, 1996 Dodge Caravan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Austin Ambassador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Austin Ambassador would be higher. At 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Dodge Caravan (164 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 720 kg more than 1983 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, 1996 Dodge Caravan (307 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Dodge Caravan | 1983 Austin Ambassador | |
| Make | Dodge | Austin |
| Model | Caravan | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 307 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2680 mm |
