1986 AC Ace vs. 2008 Alpina B5
To start off, 2008 Alpina B5 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 AC Ace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 AC Ace would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Alpina B5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alpina B5 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 343 more horse power than 1986 AC Ace. (150 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 1986 AC Ace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alpina B5 weights approximately 813 kg more than 1986 AC Ace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 AC Ace is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Alpina B5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 AC Ace will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Alpina B5 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 486 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 AC Ace. (214 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 AC Ace. 2008 Alpina B5 has automatic transmission and 1986 AC Ace has manual transmission. 1986 AC Ace will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Alpina B5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 AC Ace | 2008 Alpina B5 | |
| Make | AC | Alpina |
| Model | Ace | B5 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 907 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 70 L |
