1963 AC Cobra vs. 2003 Proton 400
To start off, 2003 Proton 400 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, 1963 AC Cobra (271 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 2003 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2003 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 AC Cobra weights approximately 60 kg more than 2003 Proton 400. 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, 2003 Proton 400, 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 315 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1963 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 AC Cobra | 2003 Proton 400 | |
| Make | AC | Proton |
| Model | Cobra | 400 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4727 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 423 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2510 mm |
