1998 AC Cobra vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 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 219 more horse power than 2013 Mazda 3. (146 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2013 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 274 kg more than 1998 AC Cobra.
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, 2013 Mazda 3, 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 379 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda 3. (200 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 AC Cobra | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | AC | Mazda |
| Model | Cobra | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 365 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 579 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
