1974 AC 428 vs. 2009 BMW M5
To start off, 2009 BMW M5 is newer by 35 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, 2009 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1974 AC 428. (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1974 AC 428. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M5 weights approximately 328 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 @ 2800 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M5. (519 Nm @ 6100 RPM). This means 1974 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 AC 428 | 2009 BMW M5 | |
| Make | AC | BMW |
| Model | 428 | M5 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7003 cc | 4999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 519 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1758 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2890 mm |
