2008 Ford Taurus X vs. 1971 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2008 Ford Taurus X is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Taurus X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Taurus X (260 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1971 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X should accelerate faster than 1971 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Taurus X weights approximately 97 kg more than 1971 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Taurus X, 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 Taurus X (332 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Sunbeam Alpine. 2008 Ford Taurus X has automatic transmission and 1971 Sunbeam Alpine has manual transmission. 1971 Sunbeam Alpine will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Taurus X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Taurus X | 1971 Sunbeam Alpine | |
Make | Ford | Sunbeam |
Model | Taurus X | Alpine |
Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 71 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 332 Nm | 123 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1010 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2510 mm |