1955 Fairthorpe Atom vs. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1971 Sunbeam Rapier is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Fairthorpe Atom would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. (15 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 613 kg more than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. 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:
| 1955 Fairthorpe Atom | 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Fairthorpe | Sunbeam |
| Model | Atom | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 322 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 15 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.1:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 417 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 68 L |
