1973 AC 428 vs. 2003 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 30 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 199 more horse power than 2003 Opel Meriva. (99 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 AC 428 weights approximately 37 kg more than 2003 Opel Meriva. 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, 2003 Opel Meriva, 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 409 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Meriva. (230 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1973 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Meriva.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 AC 428 | 2003 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | AC | Opel |
| Model | 428 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7002 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
