1963 AC Cobra vs. 2003 Alpina B3
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 40 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, 2003 Alpina B3 (277 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1963 AC Cobra. (271 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1963 AC Cobra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1963 AC Cobra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1963 AC Cobra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 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, 1963 AC Cobra (423 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alpina B3. (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1963 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 AC Cobra | 2003 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | AC | Alpina |
| Model | Cobra | B3 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4727 cc | 3301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 277 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 423 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 63 L |
