1988 Saab 9000 vs. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1988 Saab 9000 is newer by 14 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Saab 9000 (136 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Saab 9000 weights approximately 295 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, 1988 Saab 9000, 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, 1988 Saab 9000 (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine has automatic transmission and 1988 Saab 9000 has manual transmission. 1988 Saab 9000 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:
| 1988 Saab 9000 | 1974 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Saab | Sunbeam |
| Model | 9000 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
