2004 Dodge Caravan vs. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2004 Dodge Caravan is newer by 30 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Caravan (145 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 731 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, 2004 Dodge Caravan, 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 Dodge Caravan (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Caravan | 1974 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Dodge | Sunbeam |
| Model | Caravan | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1741 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2510 mm |
