2009 Audi A3 vs. 1976 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 33 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 20 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, 2009 Audi A3, 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, 2009 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1976 Sunbeam Alpine has manual transmission. 1976 Sunbeam Alpine will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1976 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Audi | Sunbeam |
| Model | A3 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
