1991 Mazda 626 vs. 1972 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1991 Mazda 626 is newer by 19 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 1,789 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mazda 626 (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mazda 626 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. 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, 1991 Mazda 626, 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 Mazda 626 (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 626 | 1972 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Mazda | Sunbeam |
| Model | 626 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1972 |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
