1966 AC Cobra vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 AC Cobra would be higher. At 6,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 AC Cobra (410 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (180 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 216 kg more than 1966 AC Cobra.
Because 1966 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 1966 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1966 AC Cobra (651 Nm) has 416 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (235 Nm). This means 1966 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 AC Cobra | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | AC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cobra | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6997 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 410 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 651 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 107.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
