2005 AC Cobra vs. 1986 AC Ace
To start off, 2005 AC Cobra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 AC Ace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 AC Ace would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 AC Cobra (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1986 AC Ace. (201 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1986 AC Ace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 AC Cobra weights approximately 42 kg more than 1986 AC Ace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 AC Ace is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 AC Cobra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 AC Ace 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, 2005 AC Cobra (400 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 AC Ace. (276 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 AC Ace.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 AC Cobra | 1986 AC Ace | |
| Make | AC | AC |
| Model | Cobra | Ace |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 276 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2480 mm |
