1971 AC 428 vs. 1989 Buick Skylark
To start off, 1989 Buick Skylark is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 AC 428 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 138 more horse power than 1989 Buick Skylark. (160 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1989 Buick Skylark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 AC 428 weights approximately 154 kg more than 1989 Buick Skylark. 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, 1989 Buick Skylark, 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 388 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Buick Skylark. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1971 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Buick Skylark. 1989 Buick Skylark has automatic transmission and 1971 AC 428 has manual transmission. 1971 AC 428 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Buick Skylark will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 AC 428 | 1989 Buick Skylark | |
| Make | AC | Buick |
| Model | 428 | Skylark |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7003 cc | 3344 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1276 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2630 mm |
