1951 Abarth 205 vs. 1957 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1957 Sunbeam Rapier is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Abarth 205. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Abarth 205 would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1951 Abarth 205 (64 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1957 Sunbeam Rapier. (62 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1951 Abarth 205 should accelerate faster than 1957 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 247 kg more than 1951 Abarth 205.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Abarth 205 | 1957 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Abarth | Sunbeam |
| Model | 205 | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1188 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 818 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2440 mm |
