1985 AC Cobra vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 AC Cobra (320 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1985 AC Cobra.
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, 1985 AC Cobra (522 Nm) has 286 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1985 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 AC Cobra | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | AC | BMW |
| Model | Cobra | M3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 522 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2710 mm |
