1997 BMW M3 vs. 1982 Austin Ambassador
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Austin Ambassador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Austin Ambassador would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1982 Austin Ambassador. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW M3 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 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Austin Ambassador. 1982 Austin Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Austin Ambassador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1982 Austin Ambassador | |
| Make | BMW | Austin |
| Model | M3 | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
