1974 AC 428 vs. 1987 Austin Maestro
To start off, 1987 Austin Maestro is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 AC 428 would be higher. At 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1987 Austin Maestro. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1987 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 AC 428 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1987 Austin Maestro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 AC 428. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Austin Maestro, 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, 1974 AC 428 (639 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 537 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Austin Maestro. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 AC 428 | 1987 Austin Maestro | |
| Make | AC | Austin |
| Model | 428 | Maestro |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7003 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |
