1998 AC Cobra vs. 2004 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2004 Panoz Esperante is newer by 6 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, 2004 Panoz Esperante (420 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1998 AC Cobra. (365 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1998 AC Cobra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 509 kg more than 1998 AC Cobra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 AC Cobra (579 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Panoz Esperante. (529 Nm). This means 1998 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Panoz Esperante.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 AC Cobra | 2004 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | AC | Panoz |
| Model | Cobra | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 4589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 365 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 579 Nm | 529 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 59 L |
