1973 AC 428 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 AC 428 would be higher. At 7,002 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 AC 428 weights approximately 585 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 AC 428. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1973 AC 428 (639 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 523 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 AC 428 | 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | AC | Volkswagen |
| Model | 428 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7002 cc | 1713 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
