1975 AC 428 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 AC 428 would be higher. At 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1975 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1975 AC 428. (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1975 AC 428. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 610 kg more than 1975 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 AC 428. (639 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 AC 428. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1975 AC 428 has manual transmission. 1975 AC 428 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 AC 428 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | AC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 428 | SL |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2005 |
| 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 | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 639 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
