2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1972 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 29 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (95 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 95 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 Mercedes-Benz A (186 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 1972 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Sunbeam |
| Model | A | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1972 |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2510 mm |
