2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1972 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Sunbeam Alpine weights approximately 5 kg more than 2009 Citroen C3.
Because 1972 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 1972 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3, 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, 1972 Sunbeam Alpine (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen C3. (115 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1972 Sunbeam Alpine will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1972 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Citroen | Sunbeam |
| Model | C3 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2510 mm |
