2008 Saturn Aura vs. 1976 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2008 Saturn Aura is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Aura is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Aura (253 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Aura should accelerate faster than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Aura weights approximately 275 kg more than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Aura, 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 Saturn Aura (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Aura will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Saturn Aura | 1976 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Saturn | Sunbeam |
| Model | Aura | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Engine Size | 3564 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
