2011 Nissan Sentra vs. 1974 Sunbeam Alpine
To start off, 2011 Nissan Sentra is newer by 37 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Sentra (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 343 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, 2011 Nissan Sentra, 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, 2011 Nissan Sentra (199 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Alpine.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Nissan Sentra | 1974 Sunbeam Alpine | |
| Make | Nissan | Sunbeam |
| Model | Sentra | Alpine |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1974 |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | CVT | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1353 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4567 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1791 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1511 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2685 mm | 2510 mm |
