2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 29 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (215 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 495 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1974 Sunbeam Alpine has manual transmission. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1974 Sunbeam Alpine | |
Make | Chrysler | Sunbeam |
Model | PT Cruiser | Alpine |
Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1724 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 71 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 339 Nm | 123 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1010 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |