2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1970 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (108 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1970 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1970 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 227 kg more than 1970 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara, 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, 2008 Citroen Xsara (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Sunbeam Alpine. 1970 Sunbeam Alpine has automatic transmission and 2008 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2008 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Sunbeam Alpine will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1970 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Citroen | Sunbeam |
| Model | Xsara | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1970 |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 71 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1237 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2510 mm |
