2006 Audi A3 vs. 1962 Sunbeam Alpine

To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 3,188 cc, 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. (79 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 885 kg more than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1962 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 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3, 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. (127 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Audi A3 1962 Sunbeam Alpine
Make Audi Sunbeam
Model A3 Alpine
Year Released 2006 1962
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3188 cc 1592 cc
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 247 HP 79 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 127 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 81.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 95.9 mm 76.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.3:1 9.1:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1880 kg 995 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1540 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1310 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2190 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 40 L