Germany vs United Kingdom — 1973 vs 1965
| CD Coupe | 428 Frua Coupe | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 160 hp | 345 hp |
| Torque | 167 lb-ft | 440 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,784 cc | 7,014 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.5 sec | 5.9 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 142 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.3 sec | 14.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,197 lbs | 3,250 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,670 mm | 2,578 mm |
| Length | 4,725 mm | 4,597 mm |
| Units Produced | 395 | 81 |
| Value (Excellent) | $70,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 1965 AC 428 Frua Coupe with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1973 Bitter CD Coupe offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
The rivalry between Germany and United Kingdom automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1973 Bitter CD Coupe versus 1965 AC 428 Frua Coupe is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1965 AC 428 Frua Coupe holds a clear advantage in raw power with 345 hp compared to 160 hp, a 185-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Bitter CD uses a Inline-6 SOHC displacing 2,784 cc, while the AC 428 relies on a V8 OHV (Ford FE 428) with 7,014 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1965 AC 428 Frua Coupe edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 81 units built, the 1965 AC 428 Frua Coupe is considerably scarcer than the Bitter CD's 395 examples. On the collector market, the 1965 AC 428 Frua Coupe commands a significant premium over the 1973 Bitter CD Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1965 AC 428 Frua Coupe rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.