2000 AC Cobra vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 2000 AC Cobra is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2000 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 AC Cobra (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 468 kg more than 2000 AC Cobra.
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, 2000 AC Cobra (400 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2000 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 AC Cobra | 1997 BMW S3 | |
| Make | AC | BMW |
| Model | Cobra | S3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 258 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2710 mm |
