2007 Audi A3 vs. 1972 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 424 kg more than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. 1972 Sunbeam Alpine has automatic transmission and 2007 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2007 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Sunbeam Alpine will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1972 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Audi | Sunbeam |
| Model | A3 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1972 |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
