1973 Sunbeam Alpine vs. 2013 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2013 Nissan Versa is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan Versa (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Nissan Versa weights approximately 110 kg more than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Nissan Versa, 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, 2013 Nissan Versa (145 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Nissan Versa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Sunbeam Alpine | 2013 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Nissan |
| Model | Alpine | Versa |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2013 |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Vehicle Weight | 1014 kg | 1124 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4455 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1514 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2600 mm |
