1998 Ford Contour vs. 1983 Austin Ambassador
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 15 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 37 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, 1998 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador. 1983 Austin Ambassador has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Contour 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:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 1983 Austin Ambassador | |
| Make | Ford | Austin |
| Model | Contour | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
