1955 Abarth 208 vs. 1961 AC Cobra
To start off, 1961 AC Cobra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Abarth 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Abarth 208 would be higher. At 4,265 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 AC Cobra (256 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1955 Abarth 208. (65 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1955 Abarth 208. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 AC Cobra weights approximately 110 kg more than 1955 Abarth 208. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Abarth 208 | 1961 AC Cobra | |
| Make | Abarth | AC |
| Model | 208 | Cobra |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1088 cc | 4265 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 65 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2060 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 68 L |
