1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1984 Austin Ambassador
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 14 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1984 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 615 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.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 399 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1984 Austin Ambassador | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Austin |
Model | SL | Ambassador |
Year Released | 1998 | 1984 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1697 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 349 HP | 83 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 530 Nm | 131 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1820 kg | 1205 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2680 mm |