2009 Chevrolet HHR vs. 1976 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet HHR 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet HHR (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet HHR weights approximately 460 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 Chevrolet HHR, 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 Chevrolet HHR (222 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet HHR | 1976 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Sunbeam |
| Model | HHR | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2510 mm |
