2003 AC Cobra vs. 2009 Audi A3
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 6 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 202 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 328 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, 2009 Audi A3, 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 200 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2009 Audi A3 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. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 AC Cobra | 2009 Audi A3 | |
| Make | AC | Audi |
| Model | Cobra | A3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2580 mm |
