2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1955 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 2,267 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. (80 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Sunbeam Alpine weights approximately 30 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1955 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 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 Mercedes-Benz A (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. (163 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 1955 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Sunbeam |
| Model | A | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 2267 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 7.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
