1989 Holden Nova vs. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1989 Holden Nova is newer by 15 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, 1989 Holden Nova (90 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Holden Nova weights approximately 10 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, 1989 Holden Nova, 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, 1989 Holden Nova (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Holden Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine has automatic transmission and 1989 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1989 Holden Nova 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:
| 1989 Holden Nova | 1974 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Holden | Sunbeam |
| Model | Nova | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |
