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Austin1982 Austin Ambassador Dimensions, Size & Specs| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1982 |
| Production Years: | 1982 - 1984 discontinued in 1984 |
The Austin Ambassador hatchback, produced between 1982 and 1984, represents a unique model from the early 1980s British automotive scene. This generation of the Ambassador was designed to offer the practicality of a hatchback combined with a compact yet comfortable size suitable for urban and suburban driving. The car's dimensions reflect its intent as a midsize hatchback from its era, offering balanced proportions for maneuverability and interior space.
While detailed specific measurements such as length, width, and height vary slightly by source, the Austin Ambassador of this generation typically measured around 4.1 meters (approximately 161 inches) in length and 1.67 meters (about 66 inches) in width. Its height was relatively moderate, estimated near 1.37 meters (around 54 inches), which contributed to an efficient aerodynamic profile. The vehicle's weight generally ranged from 1,100 to 1,200 kilograms (2,425 to 2,645 pounds), depending on trim and equipment, indicating a relatively light compact hatchback by modern standards.
The 1982-1984 Austin Ambassador was built with a focus on delivering all-around usability while preserving the driving dynamics typical of British cars in that period. It featured a hatchback layout that maximized cargo flexibility, offering a practical solution for drivers seeking a small family car or an economical daily driver. The Ambassador's design balanced simplicity and functionality, making it a notable example among early 1980s hatchbacks.
Compared to other vehicles of its class and time, the Austin Ambassador offered competitive dimensions that made it suitable for tight city environments while maintaining enough interior volume for passengers and cargo. Its compact footprint ensured ease of parking and maneuverability, making it a viable choice for drivers who required a practical yet stylish vehicle with British heritage.
Overall, the Austin Ambassador 1982-1984 hatchback stands as a classic example of early 80s British automotive design, combining compact size with practical hatchback features, appealing to enthusiasts of vintage hatchbacks and collectors interested in unique car sizing and comparisons.
Discover the standout features that make the 1982 Austin Ambassador a leader in its class
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The 1982-1984 Austin Ambassador hatchback features a compact exterior size suitable for urban driving. It measures approximately 3,810 mm (150 inches) in length, 1,610 mm (63.4 inches) in width without mirrors, and around 1,350 mm (53.1 inches) in height. These dimensions place the Ambassador in the subcompact hatchback category, making it easy to maneuver and park in tight spaces. Its modest width and height contribute to a low profile, improving aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.
The curb weight of the Austin Ambassador hatchback from the 1982-1984 production period is approximately 900 to 950 kilograms (about 1,984 to 2,094 pounds). This relatively light weight helps the vehicle maintain reasonable agility and fuel economy for its class. The lighter curb weight is a result of the compact hatchback body style as well as the use of lighter materials where possible during its production era.
The Austin Ambassador hatchback offers seating for up to five passengers, with a relatively spacious interior for a subcompact hatchback of its time. Passenger volume is comfortable for city and daily driving, although not as roomy as larger sedans. Cargo capacity is aided by the 3- or 5-door hatchback configuration, with a fold-down rear seat to expand the cargo area. The standard cargo space behind the rear seats is approximately 300 liters (10.6 cubic feet), which expands significantly when the rear seat folds down, accommodating larger items for practicality.
Yes, the Austin Ambassador hatchback from 1982-1984 can comfortably fit within a standard residential garage. The average garage door width ranges from about 2.44 meters (8 feet) to 2.74 meters (9 feet), and the Ambassador's width of roughly 1.61 meters (63.4 inches or 5.28 feet) leaves ample clearance on either side. Additionally, with a length of about 3.81 meters (150 inches or 12.5 feet), it fits without issue, allowing space for storage or movement around the vehicle inside the garage.
Compared to its predecessor, the Austin Ambassador hatchback of 1982-1984 was designed to be slightly more compact and efficient in usage of space. Its predecessor typically was larger in overall length and slightly heavier. The 1982–1984 model focused on better urban maneuverability without significantly sacrificing passenger or cargo space. This generation also featured updated styling and improved hatchback functionality, making it a more modern choice in the compact hatchback segment.
When compared to other compact hatchbacks from the early 1980s, such as the Volkswagen Golf Mk1 or the Ford Fiesta Mk1, the Austin Ambassador is fairly similar in size but on the slightly smaller end. The Ambassador's length of around 3.81 meters (150 inches) is comparable but slightly shorter than many competitors that stretched closer to 4 meters (157 inches). Its width and height are also compact, aiding city driving and parking. Overall, it fits well into the subcompact hatchback class, offering competitive dimensions for its era.
The Austin Ambassador 1982-1984 model is a compact hatchback known for its practical design and economical operation. It was designed with urban and suburban drivers in mind, offering easy maneuverability, decent fuel efficiency, and practical hatchback cargo space. Mechanical components typically included a modestly powered 1.0 to 1.3L petrol engine, manual transmission options, and simple yet functional interiors. It represents British automotive efforts to retain competitiveness in the increasingly crowded small car segment of the early 1980s.
The Austin Ambassador hatchback from this model period has an approximate height of 1,350 mm (53.1 inches), providing a low center of gravity that aids handling and stability. Ground clearance is moderate, typically around 140 mm (5.5 inches), which is sufficient for urban road conditions but not designed for rugged or off-road use. This height and clearance balance comfort with sporty driving dynamics expected from compact hatchbacks of early 1980s design philosophy.
The fuel tank capacity of the Austin Ambassador hatchback from 1982 to 1984 is generally around 38 liters (approximately 10 gallons). Given the engine options and relatively light weight, the car achieves respectable fuel economy for its era, averaging roughly between 7 to 9 liters per 100 km (26 to 33 mpg US). This means its approximate driving range on a full tank is about 420 to 540 kilometers (260 to 335 miles), convenient for daily commuting and short trips without frequent refueling.
The Austin Ambassador hatchback excels in urban environments due to its compact exterior dimensions and tight turning radius. Its length of just under 3.81 meters (150 inches) and narrow width make it easier to navigate and park in congested city streets and parking spots than many larger vehicles. Compared to other small cars from the 1980s, the Ambassador offers very practical size advantages for city dwellers, balancing passenger comfort with excellent maneuverability and ease of use in tight urban spaces.
