1972 AC 428 vs. 2005 BMW M3
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AC 428 would be higher. At 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (323 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1972 AC 428. (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1972 AC 428. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 266 kg more than 1972 AC 428. 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 267 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW M3. (372 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1972 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AC 428 | 2005 BMW M3 | |
| Make | AC | BMW |
| Model | 428 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7003 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 323 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 372 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2730 mm |
