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 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 65 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. 1955 Sunbeam Alpine weights approximately 75 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
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 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 18 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 | 1998 cc | 2267 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
