2003 AC Cobra vs. 1963 Wartburg 311
To start off, 2003 AC Cobra is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Wartburg 311 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) has 301 more horse power than 1963 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1963 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 AC Cobra weights approximately 92 kg more than 1963 Wartburg 311. 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, 1963 Wartburg 311, 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 302 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 AC Cobra | 1963 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | AC | Wartburg |
| Model | Cobra | 311 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1963 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 73.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2460 mm |
