2001 AC Cobra vs. 2004 Audi A3
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 AC Cobra would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 AC Cobra (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (252 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 505 kg more than 2001 AC Cobra.
Because 2004 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 AC Cobra. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2001 AC Cobra (400 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3. 2004 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2001 AC Cobra has manual transmission. 2001 AC Cobra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 AC Cobra | 2004 Audi A3 | |
| Make | AC | Audi |
| Model | Cobra | A3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2470 mm |
