1997 Alfa Romeo 155 vs. 1972 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 155 is newer by 25 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 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 155 (118 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 155 should accelerate faster than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 155 weights approximately 260 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 155, 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 155 (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 155 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 155 | 1972 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Sunbeam |
| Model | 155 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
