1974 AC 428 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 38 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 128 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 AC 428 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 399 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1974 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 AC 428 | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | AC | Volkswagen |
| Model | 428 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7003 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 298 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2651 mm |
