1974 AC 428 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 28 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1974 AC 428. (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1974 AC 428. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 705 kg more than 1974 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 AC 428. (639 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 AC 428. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1974 AC 428 has manual transmission. 1974 AC 428 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 AC 428 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | AC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 428 | S |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7003 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 801 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
