1999 AC Cobra vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 AC Cobra (365 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (232 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 376 kg more than 1999 AC Cobra.
Because 1999 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 1999 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 1999 AC Cobra (579 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen GTI. (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1999 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen GTI.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 AC Cobra | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | AC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cobra | GTI |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 365 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 579 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
