2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1972 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 33 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Sunbeam Alpine weights approximately 114 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Lotus Elise (187 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm). This means 2005 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 1972 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Lotus | Sunbeam |
| Model | Elise | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1972 |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 896 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2510 mm |
