AC 428

vs

Lamborghini Islero

UK vs Italy — 1965 vs 1968

AC 428 (1965)
Lamborghini Islero (1968)
Specifications
428 Frua FastbackIslero S
Horsepower345 hp350 hp
Torque430 lb-ft273 lb-ft
Engine Size7,016 cc3,929 cc
0-60 mph5.9 sec6.2 sec
Top Speed140 mph164 mph
¼ Mile14.1 sec14.2 sec
Weight3,300 lbs2,833 lbs
Wheelbase2,565 mm2,550 mm
Length4,597 mm4,480 mm
Units Produced81225
Original MSRP$12,000$14,500
Value (Excellent)$500,000$700,000
Collectibility8/108/10
Rarity9/108/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1965 AC 428 Frua Fastback brings quicker acceleration, greater rarity to the table, and the 1968 Lamborghini Islero S answers with higher top speed, lighter weight. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between UK and Italy automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1965 AC 428 Frua Fastback versus 1968 Lamborghini Islero S is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1965 AC 428 Frua Fastback producing 345 hp and the 1968 Lamborghini Islero S delivering 350 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the AC 428 uses a V8 OHV displacing 7,016 cc, while the Lamborghini Islero relies on a V12 DOHC with 3,929 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1965 AC 428 Frua Fastback edges ahead at 5.9 seconds versus 6.2 seconds. The Lamborghini Islero carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 467 lbs lighter. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.