2002 Ferrari 550 vs. 1974 AC 428
To start off, 2002 Ferrari 550 is newer by 28 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, 2002 Ferrari 550 (485 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1974 AC 428. (298 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ferrari 550 should accelerate faster than 1974 AC 428. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ferrari 550 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1974 AC 428. 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, 2002 Ferrari 550, 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) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ferrari 550. (570 Nm). This means 1974 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ferrari 550.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ferrari 550 | 1974 AC 428 | |
| Make | Ferrari | AC |
| Model | 550 | 428 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5473 cc | 7003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 485 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 639 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2450 mm |
