1961 AC Cobra vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 52 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, 2013 Kia Optima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1961 AC Cobra. (256 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1961 AC Cobra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Kia Optima weights approximately 558 kg more than 1961 AC Cobra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 Kia Optima, 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, both vehicles can yield 365 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2013 Kia Optima 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. 2013 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 AC Cobra | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | AC | Kia |
| Model | Cobra | Optima |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4265 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1538 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2795 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
