1986 Peugeot 309 vs. 1974 AC 428
To start off, 1986 Peugeot 309 is newer by 12 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 234 more horse power than 1986 Peugeot 309. (64 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1986 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 AC 428 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1986 Peugeot 309. 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, 1986 Peugeot 309, 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 531 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Peugeot 309. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1974 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Peugeot 309. 1974 AC 428 has automatic transmission and 1986 Peugeot 309 has manual transmission. 1986 Peugeot 309 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 AC 428 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Peugeot 309 | 1974 AC 428 | |
| Make | Peugeot | AC |
| Model | 309 | 428 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 7003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 639 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2450 mm |
