1997 AC Cobra vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 AC Cobra (365 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 913 kg more than 1997 AC Cobra.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 AC Cobra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer 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, 1997 AC Cobra (579 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 AC Cobra | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | AC | Ford |
| Model | Cobra | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 365 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 579 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 3490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 85 L |
