1985 AC Cobra vs. 2001 Audi A8
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 16 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, 2001 Audi A8 (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1985 AC Cobra. (223 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1985 AC Cobra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 750 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.
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, 2001 Audi A8, 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 (407 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Audi A8. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1985 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Audi A8. 2001 Audi A8 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. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 AC Cobra | 2001 Audi A8 | |
| Make | AC | Audi |
| Model | Cobra | A8 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 3695 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
