2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1973 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (119 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 859 kg more than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 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 (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1973 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Chrysler | Sunbeam |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1873 kg | 1014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2510 mm |
