2008 Opel Meriva vs. 1983 Austin Ambassador
To start off, 2008 Opel Meriva is newer by 25 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Meriva weights approximately 190 kg more than 1983 Austin Ambassador.
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, 2008 Opel Meriva (241 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador. 1983 Austin Ambassador has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Meriva has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Meriva 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:
| 2008 Opel Meriva | 1983 Austin Ambassador | |
| Make | Opel | Austin |
| Model | Meriva | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2680 mm |
