1973 AC 428 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 1990 BMW 316 is newer by 17 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 198 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 AC 428 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. 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 498 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1973 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 AC 428 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | AC | BMW |
| Model | 428 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7002 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |
