1961 AC Cobra vs. 1942 Fiat 500
To start off, 1961 AC Cobra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Fiat 500 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 242 more horse power than 1942 Fiat 500. (14 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1942 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 AC Cobra weights approximately 445 kg more than 1942 Fiat 500. 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:
| 1961 AC Cobra | 1942 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | AC | Fiat |
| Model | Cobra | 500 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1942 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4265 cc | 567 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 14 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 3220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1280 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2010 mm |
