1961 AC Cobra vs. 1965 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1965 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 AC Cobra 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 232 more horse power than 1965 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1965 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 AC Cobra weights approximately 218 kg more than 1965 Volkswagen Beetle. 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 | 1965 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | AC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cobra | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4265 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 762 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 40 L |
