1973 AC 428 vs. 2008 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 35 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, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1973 AC 428. (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1973 AC 428. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1973 AC 428. 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 274 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1973 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 AC 428 | 2008 BMW M3 | |
| Make | AC | BMW |
| Model | 428 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7002 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2740 mm |
