1953 Sunbeam Alpine vs. 1997 Volvo S40
To start off, 1997 Volvo S40 is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 2,267 cc (4 cylinders), 1953 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S40 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1953 Sunbeam Alpine. (79 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1953 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 Sunbeam Alpine weights approximately 45 kg more than 1997 Volvo S40.
Because 1953 Sunbeam Alpine 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 1953 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S40, 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, 1953 Sunbeam Alpine (163 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S40. (143 Nm). This means 1953 Sunbeam Alpine will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Sunbeam Alpine | 1997 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Volvo |
| Model | Alpine | S40 |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2267 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 68 L |
