1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1973 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 24 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 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (143 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 216 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156, 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 156 (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1973 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Sunbeam |
| Model | 156 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2510 mm |
