1977 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1965 AC Cobra
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,737 cc (8 cylinders), 1965 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 AC Cobra (267 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1965 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 AC Cobra weights approximately 190 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 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 1965 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen 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, 1965 AC Cobra (426 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1965 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1977 Volkswagen Beetle | 1965 AC Cobra | |
Make | Volkswagen | AC |
Model | Beetle | Cobra |
Year Released | 1977 | 1965 |
Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1285 cc | 4737 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 43 HP | 267 HP |
Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 87 Nm | 426 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1010 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 3850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2290 mm |