2003 AC Cobra vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 AC Cobra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 AC Cobra (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (157 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 133 kg more than 2003 AC Cobra.
Because 1988 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 AC Cobra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2003 AC Cobra (400 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 AC Cobra | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | AC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cobra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2490 mm |
