1986 AC Ace vs. 1961 AC Cobra
To start off, 1986 AC Ace is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,265 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 AC Cobra (256 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1986 AC Ace. (150 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1986 AC Ace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 AC Cobra weights approximately 73 kg more than 1986 AC Ace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 AC Ace is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 AC Cobra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 AC Ace 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, 1961 AC Cobra (365 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 AC Ace. (214 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1961 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 AC Ace.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 AC Ace | 1961 AC Cobra | |
| Make | AC | AC |
| Model | Ace | Cobra |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 4265 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 907 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 68 L |
