1998 AC Cobra vs. 2011 Audi R8
To start off, 2011 Audi R8 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 AC Cobra would be higher. At 5,200 cc (10 cylinders), 2011 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi R8 (525 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1998 AC Cobra. (365 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1998 AC Cobra.
Because 2011 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 AC Cobra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 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, 1998 AC Cobra (579 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Audi R8. (530 Nm @ 6500 RPM). This means 1998 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Audi R8. 2011 Audi R8 has automatic transmission and 1998 AC Cobra has manual transmission. 1998 AC Cobra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 AC Cobra | 2011 Audi R8 | |
| Make | AC | Audi |
| Model | Cobra | R8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 365 HP | 525 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 579 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1905 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
