2003 AC Cobra vs. 1961 Austin Mini Cooper
To start off, 2003 AC Cobra is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin Mini Cooper would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 AC Cobra (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 296 more horse power than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 AC Cobra weights approximately 478 kg more than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Austin Mini Cooper, 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, 2003 AC Cobra (400 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (74 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 AC Cobra | 1961 Austin Mini Cooper | |
| Make | AC | Austin |
| Model | Cobra | Mini Cooper |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 62.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 81.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 584 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2040 mm |
