2002 Dodge Neon vs. 1976 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2002 Dodge Neon is newer by 26 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Neon (212 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Neon weights approximately 196 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, 2002 Dodge Neon, 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, 2002 Dodge Neon (304 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Neon | 1976 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Dodge | Sunbeam |
| Model | Neon | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2510 mm |
