2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1983 Austin Ambassador
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 20 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 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Austin Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 45 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (146 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador. 1983 Austin Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 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:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1983 Austin Ambassador | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Austin |
| Model | 156 | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
