1966 AC Cobra vs. 2009 Mazda 3

To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 43 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, 1966 AC Cobra (410 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 256 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 AC Cobra weights approximately 22 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1966 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 1966 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, 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, 1966 AC Cobra (651 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 447 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (204 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1966 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.

Compare all specifications:

1966 AC Cobra 2009 Mazda 3
Make AC Mazda
Model Cobra 3
Year Released 1966 2009
Body Type Roadster Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 6997 cc 2260 cc
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 410 HP 154 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 651 Nm 204 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 107.7 mm 87.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 96 mm 94 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1147 kg 1125 kg
Vehicle Length 3970 mm 4500 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1250 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2290 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 55 L