2009 Ford Fiesta vs. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2009 Ford Fiesta is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,724 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Fiesta (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 12 kg more than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Fiesta, 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 Ford Fiesta (204 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Fiesta | 1974 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Ford | Sunbeam |
| Model | Fiesta | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1022 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |
