1955 Sunbeam Alpine vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 41 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 2,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. (80 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1955 Sunbeam Alpine.
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, 1996 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, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. (163 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Sunbeam Alpine | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Volkswagen |
| Model | Alpine | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2267 cc | 2800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 148 km/hour | 209 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 Length | 4280 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2480 mm |
