1998 AC Cobra vs. 2003 Audi A3
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 AC Cobra 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 265 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A3 weights approximately 179 kg more than 1998 AC Cobra.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 AC Cobra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 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, 1998 AC Cobra (579 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 431 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 AC Cobra | 2003 Audi A3 | |
| Make | AC | Audi |
| Model | Cobra | A3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 365 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 579 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
