2003 AC Cobra vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2003 AC Cobra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra 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 261 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 88 kg more than 2003 AC Cobra.
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, 1998 Opel Astra, 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 275 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 AC Cobra | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | AC | Opel |
| Model | Cobra | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2620 mm |
