1985 AC Cobra vs. 1998 BMW 317
To start off, 1998 BMW 317 is newer by 13 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 (223 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 275 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 (407 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1985 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 AC Cobra | 1998 BMW 317 | |
| Make | AC | BMW |
| Model | Cobra | 317 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1665 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2730 mm |
