1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1960 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,591 cc (4 cylinders), 1960 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 81 more horse power than 1960 Sunbeam Alpine. (79 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1960 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Lotus Elan weights approximately 2 kg more than 1960 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 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 1960 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan, 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, 1991 Lotus Elan (143 Nm) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Sunbeam Alpine. (127 Nm). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Lotus Elan | 1960 Sunbeam Alpine | |
Make | Lotus | Sunbeam |
Model | Elan | Alpine |
Year Released | 1991 | 1960 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1591 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 79 HP |
Torque | 143 Nm | 127 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 76.2 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 995 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1540 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2190 mm |