1986 AC Ace vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 AC Ace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 AC Ace would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1986 AC Ace. (150 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1986 AC Ace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1986 AC Ace. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 AC Ace is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 AC Ace will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 AC Ace. (214 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 AC Ace.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 AC Ace | 2003 BMW M3 | |
| Make | AC | BMW |
| Model | Ace | M3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 907 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 65 L |
