1999 AC Cobra vs. 1996 BMW M3
To start off, 1999 AC Cobra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,941 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1999 AC Cobra. (222 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 AC Cobra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1999 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, 1999 AC Cobra (522 Nm) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 1999 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 AC Cobra | 1996 BMW M3 | |
| Make | AC | BMW |
| Model | Cobra | M3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4941 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 522 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 63 L |
