1954 DKW Coupe vs. 1971 AC 428
To start off, 1971 AC 428 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 DKW Coupe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 DKW Coupe would be higher. At 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1954 DKW Coupe. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1954 DKW Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 AC 428 weights approximately 551 kg more than 1954 DKW Coupe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 AC 428 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 1971 AC 428. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1954 DKW Coupe, 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, 1971 AC 428 (639 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 570 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 DKW Coupe. (69 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1971 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 DKW Coupe. 1971 AC 428 has automatic transmission and 1954 DKW Coupe has manual transmission. 1954 DKW Coupe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 AC 428 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 DKW Coupe | 1971 AC 428 | |
| Make | DKW | AC |
| Model | Coupe | 428 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 7003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 639 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 879 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2450 mm |
