2008 Ford S-Max vs. 1961 Sunbeam Alpine

To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max is newer by 47 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 686 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, 2008 Ford S-Max, 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 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. (127 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Ford S-Max 1961 Sunbeam Alpine
Make Ford Sunbeam
Model S-Max Alpine
Year Released 2008 1961
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2521 cc 1592 cc
Engine Cylinders 5 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 217 HP 80 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 127 Nm
Torque RPM 1500 RPM 3400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 83 mm 81.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 93.2 mm 76.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 17.8:1 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 1681 kg 995 kg
Vehicle Length 4770 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1540 mm
Vehicle Height 1660 mm 1310 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2190 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 40 L