2005 AC Cobra vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 AC Cobra 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 150 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (200 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 400 kg more than 2005 AC Cobra.
Because 2005 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 2005 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima, 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, 2005 AC Cobra (400 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2005 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2005 AC Cobra has manual transmission. 2005 AC Cobra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 AC Cobra | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | AC | Kia |
| Model | Cobra | Optima |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1462 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2797 mm |
