2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1961 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 515 kg more than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. (127 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1961 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Chrysler | Sunbeam |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1592 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2190 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 40 L |
