2003 AC Cobra vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 AC Cobra 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 242 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 283 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2003 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 AC Cobra | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | AC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Cobra | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2570 mm |
