1974 Sunbeam Alpine vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 600 kg more than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum, 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, 2001 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. 2001 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1974 Sunbeam Alpine has manual transmission. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Sunbeam Alpine | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Opel |
| Model | Alpine | Signum |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Size | 1724 cc | 3173 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2640 mm |
