1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1984 Austin Ambassador
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 13 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 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (103 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 65 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (256 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1984 Austin Ambassador | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Austin |
| Model | 156 | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2680 mm |
