1972 Sunbeam Alpine vs. 2004 Saturn L
To start off, 2004 Saturn L is newer by 32 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Saturn L (135 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saturn L weights approximately 310 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, 2004 Saturn L, 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, 2004 Saturn L (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Saturn L will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. 2004 Saturn L has automatic transmission and 1972 Sunbeam Alpine has manual transmission. 1972 Sunbeam Alpine will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Saturn L will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Sunbeam Alpine | 2004 Saturn L | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Saturn |
| Model | Alpine | L |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2630 mm |
