1997 AC Cobra vs. 2008 BMW X3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 11 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 137 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 1078 kg more than 1997 AC Cobra.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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, 2008 BMW X3 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 279 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3. 2008 BMW X3 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. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 AC Cobra | 2008 BMW X3 | |
| Make | AC | BMW |
| Model | Cobra | X3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 365 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 579 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 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 | 2104 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 67 L |
