1978 Alpine A 442 vs. 1970 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1978 Alpine A 442 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Alpine A 442 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Alpine A 442 (484 HP @ 9900 RPM) has 413 more horse power than 1970 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Alpine A 442 should accelerate faster than 1970 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Sunbeam Alpine weights approximately 270 kg more than 1978 Alpine A 442.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1970 Sunbeam Alpine has automatic transmission and 1978 Alpine A 442 has manual transmission. 1978 Alpine A 442 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Sunbeam Alpine will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Alpine A 442 | 1970 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Alpine | Sunbeam |
| Model | A 442 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1970 |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 484 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1010 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2510 mm |
