2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1961 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 245 kg more than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine.
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 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 (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine. (127 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 1961 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Sunbeam |
| Model | A | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1592 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 80 HP |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2190 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 40 L |
