1959 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1965 AC Cobra
To start off, 1965 AC Cobra is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,737 cc (8 cylinders), 1965 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 AC Cobra (267 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 233 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1965 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 AC Cobra weights approximately 210 kg more than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 AC Cobra 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 1965 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Volkswagen Beetle, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Volkswagen Beetle | 1965 AC Cobra | |
| Make | Volkswagen | AC |
| Model | Beetle | Cobra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 4737 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 267 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2290 mm |
