1998 AC Cobra vs. 1983 Austin Maestro
To start off, 1998 AC Cobra is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Austin Maestro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Austin Maestro would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 AC Cobra (365 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 298 more horse power than 1983 Austin Maestro. (67 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 AC Cobra weights approximately 151 kg more than 1983 Austin Maestro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 AC Cobra is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Austin Maestro, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 AC Cobra (579 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 479 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Maestro. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 AC Cobra | 1983 Austin Maestro | |
| Make | AC | Austin |
| Model | Cobra | Maestro |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 365 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 579 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2510 mm |
