1985 AC Cobra vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 27 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 (223 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 370 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, 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 157 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1985 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 AC Cobra | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | AC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cobra | Golf |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
