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 129 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (236 HP @ 4000 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 1056 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 197 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1997 AC Cobra has manual transmission. 1997 AC Cobra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 4605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 365 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 579 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 2082 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2840 mm |
