1996 Renault Megane vs. 1955 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1996 Renault Megane is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 2,267 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Renault Megane (88 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. (80 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Renault Megane weights approximately 32 kg more than 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Renault Megane, 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, 1955 Sunbeam Alpine (163 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Renault Megane. (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1955 Sunbeam Alpine will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Renault Megane. 1996 Renault Megane has automatic transmission and 1955 Sunbeam Alpine has manual transmission. 1955 Sunbeam Alpine will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Renault Megane | 1955 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Renault | Sunbeam |
| Model | Megane | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1647 cc | 2267 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 165 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
