1966 AC Cobra vs. 2002 BMW M3
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 AC Cobra would be higher. At 6,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (444 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1966 AC Cobra. (410 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1966 AC Cobra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 AC Cobra weights approximately 47 kg more than 2002 BMW M3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1966 AC Cobra (651 Nm) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW M3. (480 Nm). This means 1966 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 AC Cobra | 2002 BMW M3 | |
| Make | AC | BMW |
| Model | Cobra | M3 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6997 cc | 3997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 410 HP | 444 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 651 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1100 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2890 mm |
