2004 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1969 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (100 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1969 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1969 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 283 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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen Golf | 1969 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Sunbeam |
| Model | Golf | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1293 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 27 L |
