1961 AC Cobra vs. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 40 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 108 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 450 kg more than 1961 AC Cobra.
Because 1961 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 1961 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1961 AC Cobra (365 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. (278 Nm). This means 1961 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1961 AC Cobra has manual transmission. 1961 AC Cobra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 AC Cobra | 2001 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | AC | Pontiac |
| Model | Cobra | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4265 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2720 mm |
