1985 AC Cobra vs. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 AC Cobra (320 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 12 kg more than 1985 AC Cobra.
Because 1985 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 1985 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1985 AC Cobra (522 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 346 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier has automatic transmission and 1985 AC Cobra has manual transmission. 1985 AC Cobra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 AC Cobra | 1996 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | AC | Chevrolet |
| Model | Cobra | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 522 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 57 L |
