2001 Audi A3 vs. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A3 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3, 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, 2001 Audi A3 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 1974 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Audi | Sunbeam |
| Model | A3 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2510 mm |
