1961 Sunbeam Alpine vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 405 kg more than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. (127 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Sunbeam Alpine | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Volkswagen |
| Model | Alpine | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1592 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2190 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
