1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1974 Sunbeam Alpine is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 1600 would be higher. At 1,724 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Abarth 1600 (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Abarth 1600 should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine weights approximately 50 kg more than 1959 Abarth 1600.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine has automatic transmission and 1959 Abarth 1600 has manual transmission. 1959 Abarth 1600 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 1600 | 1974 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Abarth | Sunbeam |
| Model | 1600 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2510 mm |
