I have owned both. My last car was a 98 Cobra vert (mods: 4.10 gears, Flowmaster exhaust, K&N filter charger, Hurst shifter). My current car is a 01.5 S4 (Milltek exhaust, GIAC chip, K&N filter).

Both cars are/were fast. I actually think the Cobra launched a faster. Like someone else said it is great in the 1/4 mile. However, its handling was no where near as good as an S4. I think from a roll my S4 would prob win. I think from a stand still the Cobra would have the edge, even without AWD. Also, depends on who is a better driver and/or more willing to abuse their car.

 

If it's a 98 Cobra it isn't supercharged and won't run 12's from the factory. I think you'll walk away from it.