1972 Sunbeam Alpine vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80, 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Sunbeam Alpine | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Volvo |
| Model | Alpine | S80 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1999 |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2800 mm |
