1977 Simca 1309 vs. 1973 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1977 Simca 1309 is newer by 4 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, 1977 Simca 1309 (87 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Simca 1309 should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Simca 1309 weights approximately 81 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, 1977 Simca 1309, 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, 1977 Simca 1309 (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Simca 1309 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. 1977 Simca 1309 has automatic transmission and 1973 Sunbeam Alpine has manual transmission. 1973 Sunbeam Alpine will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Simca 1309 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Simca 1309 | 1973 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Simca | Sunbeam |
| Model | 1309 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1973 |
| Engine Size | 1592 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2510 mm |
