1973 AC 428 vs. 1989 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1989 Lotus Esprit is newer by 16 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 34 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (264 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 AC 428 weights approximately 101 kg more than 1989 Lotus Esprit. 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, 1973 AC 428 (639 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 286 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (353 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1973 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 AC 428 | 1989 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | AC | Lotus |
| Model | 428 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 7002 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 264 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2460 mm |
