2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1973 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 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 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 171 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 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1973 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Mazda | Sunbeam |
| Model | 3 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
