1974 AC 428 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 30 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1974 AC 428. (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1974 AC 428. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 418 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, 1974 AC 428 (639 Nm) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. (460 Nm). This means 1974 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 AC 428 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | AC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 428 | SL |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7003 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
