2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1983 Austin Ambassador
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (415 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 332 more horse power than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (83 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 405 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.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (539 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 408 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Ambassador. (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1983 Austin Ambassador | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Austin |
| Model | SLK | Ambassador |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5500 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 415 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 539 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4102 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1793 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2431 mm | 2680 mm |
