1962 Sunbeam Alpine vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,592 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Sunbeam Alpine (79 HP) has 32 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (47 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Sunbeam Alpine should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Sunbeam Alpine weights approximately 125 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1962 Sunbeam Alpine (127 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1962 Sunbeam Alpine will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
1962 Sunbeam Alpine | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Sunbeam | Volkswagen |
Model | Alpine | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1962 | 1977 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1592 cc | 1469 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 47 HP |
Torque | 127 Nm | 82 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81.6 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 23.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 870 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2190 mm | 2410 mm |