1996 Proton 400 vs. 1973 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1996 Proton 400 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Proton 400 (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Proton 400 should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Sunbeam Alpine weights approximately 44 kg more than 1996 Proton 400.
Because 1973 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 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Proton 400, 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, 1973 Sunbeam Alpine (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Sunbeam Alpine will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Proton 400 | 1973 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Proton | Sunbeam |
| Model | 400 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2510 mm |
