1971 AC 428 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 35 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 183 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 260 kg more than 1971 AC 428.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 484 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1971 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 AC 428 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | AC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 428 | A |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7003 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
