1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1975 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1975 Sunbeam Alpine is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1975 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1975 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Sunbeam Alpine weights approximately 308 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
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. 1975 Sunbeam Alpine has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1975 Sunbeam Alpine will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Lotus Elan | 1975 Sunbeam Alpine | |
Make | Lotus | Sunbeam |
Model | Elan | Alpine |
Year Released | 1968 | 1975 |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 71 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 702 kg | 1010 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1410 mm |