2003 AC Cobra vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 2003 AC Cobra is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 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 209 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 568 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) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 2003 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 AC Cobra | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | AC | BMW |
| Model | Cobra | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2450 mm |
