1986 Ford Escort vs. 1972 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,751 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Sunbeam Alpine (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Sunbeam Alpine should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Sunbeam Alpine weights approximately 100 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Escort, 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, 1972 Sunbeam Alpine (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1972 Sunbeam Alpine will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1972 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Ford | Sunbeam |
| Model | Escort | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1972 |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
