2001 Renault Vel Satis vs. 1962 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2001 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. (79 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 725 kg more than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Renault Vel Satis, 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 Renault Vel Satis (393 Nm) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. (127 Nm). This means 2001 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Renault Vel Satis | 1962 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Renault | Sunbeam |
| Model | Vel Satis | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 1592 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 393 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2190 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 40 L |
