1996 AC Cobra vs. 2003 Alpina B3
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 AC Cobra 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 @ 5750 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2003 Alpina B3. (277 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2003 Alpina B3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 534 kg more than 1996 AC Cobra.
Because 2003 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 AC Cobra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 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, 1996 AC Cobra (579 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alpina B3. (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 AC Cobra | 2003 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | AC | Alpina |
| Model | Cobra | B3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 3301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 365 HP | 277 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 579 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
