1999 BMW 540 vs. 1971 AC 428
To start off, 1999 BMW 540 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 AC 428 would be higher. At 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1999 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 341 kg more than 1971 AC 428.
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, 1971 AC 428 (639 Nm) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 540. (439 Nm). This means 1971 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 540. 1971 AC 428 has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 540 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 540 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 AC 428 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 540 | 1971 AC 428 | |
| Make | BMW | AC |
| Model | 540 | 428 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 7003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 639 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1771 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |
