1973 AC 428 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 39 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 214 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 AC 428 weights approximately 62 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, 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 479 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1973 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 AC 428 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | AC | Volkswagen |
| Model | 428 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7002 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2578 mm |
