UK vs Germany — 1962 vs 1973
| Cobra 289 | 911 2.7 RS Carrera | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 271 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 188 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 2,687 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.5 sec | 5.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 140 mph | 152 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.6 sec | 14.1 sec |
| Weight | 2,248 lbs | 1,984 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,286 mm | 2,271 mm |
| Length | 3,962 mm | 4,147 mm |
| Units Produced | 654 | 1,580 |
| Original MSRP | $5,995 | $11,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $2,000,000 | $1,200,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 9/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1962 AC Cobra 289 brings more power, quicker acceleration, greater rarity to the table, and the 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera answers with higher top speed, lighter weight. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between UK and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1962 AC Cobra 289 versus 1973 Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1962 AC Cobra 289 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 271 hp compared to 210 hp, a 61-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the AC Cobra uses a V8 OHV displacing 4,736 cc, while the Porsche 911 relies on a Flat-6 with 2,687 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1962 AC Cobra 289 edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 5.6 seconds. The Porsche 911 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 264 lbs lighter. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.