1985 AC Cobra vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 26 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 130 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (190 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 130 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 242 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1985 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 AC Cobra | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | AC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Cobra | A |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 522 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 54 L |
