1980 Ford Laser vs. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1980 Ford Laser is newer by 6 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 1,724 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ford Laser (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine weights approximately 175 kg more than 1980 Ford Laser.
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, 1980 Ford Laser, 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, both vehicles can yield 123 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Laser | 1974 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Ford | Sunbeam |
| Model | Laser | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2510 mm |
