1967 Austin 1300 vs. 1976 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1976 Sunbeam Rapier is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1967 Austin 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1967 Austin 1300 would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1967 Austin 1300. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1967 Austin 1300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 172 kg more than 1967 Austin 1300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Sunbeam Rapier 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 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1967 Austin 1300, 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, 1976 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1967 Austin 1300. (94 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1976 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1967 Austin 1300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1967 Austin 1300 | 1976 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Austin | Sunbeam |
| Model | 1300 | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1967 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 858 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 68 L |
