2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1970 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1970 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1970 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 500 kg more than 1970 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 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 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 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 1970 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1970 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Sunbeam |
| Model | 156 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1970 |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2510 mm |
