1996 Audi A3 vs. 1960 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 36 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (100 HP) has 21 more horse power than 1960 Sunbeam Alpine. (79 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1960 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 139 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, 1996 Audi A3, 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, 1996 Audi A3 (136 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Sunbeam Alpine. (127 Nm). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1960 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Audi | Sunbeam |
| Model | A3 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1591 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 79 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2190 mm |
