1963 AC Cobra vs. 1983 Austin Maestro
To start off, 1983 Austin Maestro is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,727 cc (8 cylinders), 1963 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 AC Cobra (271 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1983 Austin Maestro. (86 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 AC Cobra weights approximately 66 kg more than 1983 Austin Maestro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 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 1963 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Austin Maestro, 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, 1963 AC Cobra (423 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Maestro. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1963 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Maestro. 1983 Austin Maestro has automatic transmission and 1963 AC Cobra has manual transmission. 1963 AC Cobra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Austin Maestro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 AC Cobra | 1983 Austin Maestro | |
| Make | AC | Austin |
| Model | Cobra | Maestro |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4727 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 423 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 984 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2510 mm |
