2002 AC Cobra vs. 2005 BMW M3
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 AC Cobra would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 AC Cobra (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2005 BMW M3. (320 HP @ 7400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 630 kg more than 2002 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, 2002 AC Cobra (400 Nm) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW M3. (337 Nm). This means 2002 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 AC Cobra | 2005 BMW M3 | |
| Make | AC | BMW |
| Model | Cobra | M3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 3244 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 91 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2740 mm |
