1971 AC 428 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 41 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 98 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 AC 428 weights approximately 37 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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 359 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1971 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
1971 AC 428 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | AC | Volkswagen |
Model | 428 | GTI |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 7003 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 298 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 639 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1393 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4213 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1501 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2578 mm |