2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1955 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 2,267 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Sunbeam Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. (80 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Sunbeam Alpine. (163 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1955 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Mazda | Sunbeam |
| Model | 3 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 2267 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 7.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
