1985 AC Cobra vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 23 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, 2008 Audi A3 (250 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1985 AC Cobra. (223 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1985 AC Cobra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 375 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 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 AC Cobra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1985 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A3. 2008 Audi A3 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. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 AC Cobra | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | AC | Audi |
| Model | Cobra | A3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
