1987 Ford Probe vs. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1987 Ford Probe is newer by 13 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 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Ford Probe (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Probe weights approximately 240 kg more than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1987 Ford Probe, 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, 1987 Ford Probe (262 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1987 Ford Probe 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:
| 1987 Ford Probe | 1974 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Ford | Sunbeam |
| Model | Probe | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2510 mm |
