1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire vs. 1969 Riley Kestrel
To start off, 1969 Riley Kestrel is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire would be higher. At 3,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire (145 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1969 Riley Kestrel. (64 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire should accelerate faster than 1969 Riley Kestrel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire weights approximately 868 kg more than 1969 Riley Kestrel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire 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 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Riley Kestrel, 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, 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire (312 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Riley Kestrel. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Riley Kestrel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Armstrong Siddeley Star Sapphire | 1969 Riley Kestrel | |
| Make | Armstrong Siddeley | Riley |
| Model | Star Sapphire | Kestrel |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1969 |
| Engine Size | 3990 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 312 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1778 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 25 L |
