1972 AC 428 vs. 1963 AC Cobra
To start off, 1972 AC 428 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 AC Cobra would be higher. At 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1963 AC Cobra. (271 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1963 AC Cobra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AC 428 weights approximately 384 kg more than 1963 AC Cobra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1972 AC 428 (639 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 AC Cobra. (423 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 AC Cobra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AC 428 | 1963 AC Cobra | |
| Make | AC | AC |
| Model | 428 | Cobra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7003 cc | 4727 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 423 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2290 mm |
