1997 AC Cobra vs. 1971 AC 428
To start off, 1997 AC Cobra is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 AC 428 would be higher. At 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 AC Cobra (365 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1971 AC 428. (298 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1971 AC 428. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 AC 428 weights approximately 404 kg more than 1997 AC Cobra.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1971 AC 428 (639 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 AC Cobra. (579 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1971 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 AC Cobra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 AC Cobra | 1971 AC 428 | |
| Make | AC | AC |
| Model | Cobra | 428 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 7003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 365 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 579 Nm | 639 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2450 mm |
