2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1962 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. (79 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1835 kg more than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. (127 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1962 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Sunbeam |
| Model | A | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1592 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2190 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 40 L |
