2003 Opel Meriva vs. 1973 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2003 Opel Meriva is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Meriva (101 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Meriva weights approximately 366 kg more than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Meriva, 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 Opel Meriva (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Opel Meriva | 1973 Sunbeam Alpine | |
Make | Opel | Sunbeam |
Model | Meriva | Alpine |
Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 71 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 150 Nm | 123 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1014 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2510 mm |