2012 Honda Insight vs. 1983 Austin Ambassador
To start off, 2012 Honda Insight is newer by 29 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, 2012 Honda Insight (98 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Insight should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Insight weights approximately 41 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, 2012 Honda Insight (167 Nm @ 1000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Honda Insight will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Honda Insight | 1983 Austin Ambassador | |
| Make | Honda | Austin |
| Model | Insight | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1300 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | CVT | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1246 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4376 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1694 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1427 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2680 mm |
