2008 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1973 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 336 kg more than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. 1973 Sunbeam Alpine has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Sunbeam Alpine will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | 1973 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Sunbeam |
| Model | Jetta | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Size | 2480 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
