1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1979 Lotus Esprit is newer by 5 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lotus Esprit (160 HP) has 89 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1979 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine has automatic transmission and 1979 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1979 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lotus Esprit | 1974 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Lotus | Sunbeam |
| Model | Esprit | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 71 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |
