1996 AC Cobra vs. 1986 BMW 316
To start off, 1996 AC Cobra is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 316 would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 AC Cobra (365 HP) has 279 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 316 weights approximately 44 kg more than 1996 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, 1996 AC Cobra (579 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 456 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 AC Cobra | 1986 BMW 316 | |
| Make | AC | BMW |
| Model | Cobra | 316 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1573 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 365 HP | 86 HP |
| Torque | 579 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
