2003 Renault Megane vs. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane 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 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 415 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 Renault Megane, 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 Renault Megane (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Renault Megane | 1974 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Renault | Sunbeam |
| Model | Megane | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 1724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2510 mm |
