1996 AC Cobra vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 AC Cobra (365 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 489 kg more than 1996 AC Cobra.
Because 1996 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 1996 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra, 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, 1996 AC Cobra (579 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 429 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1996 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 AC Cobra | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | AC | Opel |
| Model | Cobra | Astra |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 365 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 579 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 52 L |
