1953 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1973 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1973 Sunbeam Rapier is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 3,859 cc (6 cylinders), 1953 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1953 Chevrolet Corvette (150 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1953 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 263 kg more than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 1953 Chevrolet Corvette | 1973 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Sunbeam |
| Model | Corvette | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3859 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.5 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1293 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 68 L |
