1968 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 1972 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1972 Triumph Spitfire is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1972 Triumph Spitfire. (47 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1972 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 250 kg more than 1972 Triumph Spitfire. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1968 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Triumph Spitfire. (83 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1968 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Sunbeam Rapier | 1972 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Triumph |
| Model | Rapier | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2110 mm |
