1958 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1972 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1972 Sunbeam Rapier is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,639 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Austin-Healey 100 (101 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 Austin-Healey 100 should accelerate faster than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Austin-Healey 100 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1958 Austin-Healey 100 (142 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1958 Austin-Healey 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Austin-Healey 100 | 1972 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Sunbeam |
| Model | 100 | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2639 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 68 L |
