1961 AC Ace vs. 2003 Acura CL
To start off, 2003 Acura CL is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 AC Ace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 AC Ace would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura CL (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1961 AC Ace. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 1961 AC Ace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura CL weights approximately 767 kg more than 1961 AC Ace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 AC Ace 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 1961 AC Ace. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura CL, 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, 2003 Acura CL (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 AC Ace. (180 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 AC Ace. 2003 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 1961 AC Ace has manual transmission. 1961 AC Ace will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 AC Ace | 2003 Acura CL | |
| Make | AC | Acura |
| Model | Ace | CL |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2553 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 813 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
