1974 Sunbeam Alpine vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 35 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 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 237 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Sunbeam Alpine | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Sunbeam | Volkswagen |
Model | Alpine | Jetta |
Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
Engine Size | 1724 cc | 1966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 123 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1247 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2580 mm |