2003 BMW 520 vs. 1982 Austin Ambassador
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 21 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 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (91 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 455 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 2003 BMW 520 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 2003 BMW 520. 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, 2003 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (155 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Austin Ambassador. 1982 Austin Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 520 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:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1982 Austin Ambassador | |
| Make | BMW | Austin |
| Model | 520 | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2680 mm |
