1997 AC Cobra vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 AC Cobra (365 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (197 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 310 kg more than 1997 AC Cobra.
Because 1997 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 1997 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1997 AC Cobra (579 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. 2004 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1997 AC Cobra has manual transmission. 1997 AC Cobra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 AC Cobra | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | AC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cobra | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 365 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 579 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
