1980 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1962 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1980 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Pontiac Firebird (135 HP) has 56 more horse power than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. (79 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 610 kg more than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Pontiac Firebird | 1962 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Pontiac | Sunbeam |
| Model | Firebird | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4300 cc | 1592 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2190 mm |
