2003 AC Cobra vs. 1986 BMW 316
To start off, 2003 AC Cobra is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 316 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 264 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 316 weights approximately 8 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 277 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 AC Cobra | 1986 BMW 316 | |
| Make | AC | BMW |
| Model | Cobra | 316 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1573 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 86 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2580 mm |
