2005 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 31 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 775 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.
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 Mercedes-Benz E (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1974 Sunbeam Alpine has manual transmission. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | 1974 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Sunbeam |
| Model | E | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2510 mm |
