1997 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1983 Austin Ambassador
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 14 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 355 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.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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 Mercedes-Benz E (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador. 1983 Austin Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Austin Ambassador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 1983 Austin Ambassador | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Austin |
| Model | E | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2680 mm |
