2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1973 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 36 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (167 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 540 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 1973 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 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 Malibu (160 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1973 Sunbeam Alpine has manual transmission. 1973 Sunbeam Alpine will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 1973 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Sunbeam |
| Model | Malibu | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 1014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
