1985 AC Cobra vs. 1997 Dodge Viper
To start off, 1997 Dodge Viper is newer by 12 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 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Viper (415 HP) has 95 more horse power than 1985 AC Cobra. (320 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1985 AC Cobra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Viper weights approximately 331 kg more than 1985 AC Cobra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Dodge Viper (664 Nm) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 AC Cobra. (522 Nm). This means 1997 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 AC Cobra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 AC Cobra | 1997 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | AC | Dodge |
| Model | Cobra | Viper |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 7986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 415 HP |
| Torque | 522 Nm | 664 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1506 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 68 L |
