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 1,834 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Proton 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Proton 400 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 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. 1996 Proton 400 weights approximately 51 kg more than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 Proton 400 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Proton 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. 1973 Sunbeam Alpine has automatic transmission and 1996 Proton 400 has manual transmission. 1996 Proton 400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Sunbeam Alpine will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Proton 400 | 1973 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Proton | Sunbeam |
| Model | 400 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
| Engine Size | 1834 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 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 |
