2004 Buick Century vs. 1972 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2004 Buick Century is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 3,134 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Buick Century (176 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick Century weights approximately 510 kg more than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Buick Century, 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 Buick Century (264 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. 2004 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1972 Sunbeam Alpine has manual transmission. 1972 Sunbeam Alpine will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Buick Century | 1972 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Buick | Sunbeam |
| Model | Century | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Engine Size | 3134 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2510 mm |
