2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1969 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,724 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (113 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1969 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1969 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 330 kg more than 1969 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 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 1969 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (146 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1969 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Sunbeam |
| Model | 156 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 27 L |
