Imagine an aging Amby overtaking a younger Maruti Zen on a straight stretch of road. Unbelievable? But with the Ambassador 1800 ISZ you can do just that. The 1817cc Isuzu engine delivering 74bhp has managed to give the 40-year-old design a few more years to survive. The exterior of the Isuzu-powered Amby is the same traditional shape, and body finish continues to be average if not below par. The old war-horse is quite a handful at high speeds. It rolls excessively when cornered hard and its old fashioned suspension does not inspire much confidence. Though the engine is zestful, the Amby’s dynamics are no match for it. But you won’t have many hassles as a passenger. Rear-seat comfort and ride as always is exemplary. It makes for a pleasant ride; cruising in fifth gear is like gliding. Large 15inch wheels also benefit Ride quality. Radial tyres are standard on the better-equipped BU version that has comfortable bucket seats, tinted glass and air-conditioning. Though passenger comfort is enhanced by comfortable upright sitting position. You can simple walk in and out of the car without having to crouch or bend to slide into the seat. Driving can also become easy as long as you know how to tackle the original dreaded gearbox. The Amby is also available with an aging 1489cc four cylinder diesel engine delivering 40bhp.
Though no paragon of reliability, the Ambassador is easily and cheaply repaired. It’s sturdy mechanism serves rural India well and the car can take a fair amount of abuse as well. Again, spares are available in every corner of the country. The Ambassador makes an ideal taxi (available with diesel option as Nova) and not to bad a car either if you travel chauffeur-driven.