1955 Sunbeam Alpine vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 2,267 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Sunbeam Alpine (80 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Sunbeam Alpine should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Sunbeam Alpine weights approximately 475 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1955 Sunbeam Alpine (163 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1955 Sunbeam Alpine will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Sunbeam Alpine | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Volkswagen |
| Model | Alpine | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2267 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.4:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 148 km/hour | 142 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 40 L |
