1975 Sunbeam Alpine vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1975 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1975 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 441 kg more than 1975 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40, 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, 2003 Volvo S40 (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Sunbeam Alpine | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Volvo |
| Model | Alpine | S40 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2003 |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2670 mm |
