2003 AC Cobra vs. 1973 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 2003 AC Cobra is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Datsun 240Z 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 199 more horse power than 1973 Datsun 240Z. (151 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun 240Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Datsun 240Z weights approximately 6 kg more than 2003 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, 2003 AC Cobra (400 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun 240Z. 1973 Datsun 240Z has automatic transmission and 2003 AC Cobra has manual transmission. 2003 AC Cobra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Datsun 240Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 AC Cobra | 1973 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | AC | Datsun |
| Model | Cobra | 240Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2300 mm |
