1961 AC Cobra vs. 1977 Alpine A 442
To start off, 1977 Alpine A 442 is newer by 16 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, 1977 Alpine A 442 (484 HP @ 9900 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1961 AC Cobra. (256 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Alpine A 442 should accelerate faster than 1961 AC Cobra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 AC Cobra weights approximately 240 kg more than 1977 Alpine A 442.
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 | 1977 Alpine A 442 | |
| Make | AC | Alpine |
| Model | Cobra | A 442 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4265 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 484 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 9900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 740 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2430 mm |
