1998 Peugeot 306 vs. 1961 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 1998 Peugeot 306 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Peugeot 306 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Peugeot 306 (167 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Peugeot 306 should accelerate faster than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Peugeot 306 weights approximately 169 kg more than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Peugeot 306, 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, 1998 Peugeot 306 (197 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. (127 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Peugeot 306 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Peugeot 306 | 1961 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Peugeot | Sunbeam |
| Model | 306 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1592 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2190 mm |
