2009 Toyota RAV4 vs. 1973 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2009 Toyota RAV4 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Sunbeam Alpine would be higher. At 3,545 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota RAV4 (269 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 361 kg more than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota RAV4, 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 Toyota RAV4 (334 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota RAV4 | 1973 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Toyota | Sunbeam |
| Model | RAV4 | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Size | 3545 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 269 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 334 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2510 mm |
