1997 Mazda 626 vs. 1976 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1997 Mazda 626 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 626 (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 626 should accelerate faster than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 626 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 626, 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 Mazda 626 (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 626 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 626 | 1976 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Mazda | Sunbeam |
| Model | 626 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1976 |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
