1997 BMW S3 vs. 1965 AC Cobra
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,737 cc (8 cylinders), 1965 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 AC Cobra (267 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1965 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 358 kg more than 1965 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, 1965 AC Cobra (426 Nm) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 1965 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1965 AC Cobra | |
| Make | BMW | AC |
| Model | S3 | Cobra |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 4737 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 267 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 426 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2290 mm |
