1968 Citroen DS vs. 1972 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1972 Sunbeam Rapier is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Citroen DS would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Citroen DS (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Citroen DS weights approximately 180 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.
Because 1972 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 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 Citroen DS, 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, 1968 Citroen DS (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1968 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Citroen DS | 1972 Sunbeam Rapier | |
Make | Citroen | Sunbeam |
Model | DS | Rapier |
Year Released | 1968 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 98 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 151 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |