1973 AC 428 vs. 1984 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 1984 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 11 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 245 more horse power than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (53 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 AC 428 weights approximately 700 kg more than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1984 Volkswagen Polo, 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 542 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Volkswagen Polo. (97 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1973 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Volkswagen Polo.

Compare all specifications:

1973 AC 428 1984 Volkswagen Polo
Make AC Volkswagen
Model 428 Polo
Year Released 1973 1984
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 7002 cc 1272 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 298 HP 53 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 639 Nm 97 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 3400 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 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1430 kg 730 kg
Vehicle Length 4430 mm 3660 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1590 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2400 mm