1974 AC 428 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle 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, 1974 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 AC 428 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 513 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1974 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 AC 428 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | AC | Volkswagen |
| Model | 428 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7003 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
