1968 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 40 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 320 kg more than 1968 Sunbeam Rapier.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Sunbeam Rapier. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Sunbeam Rapier | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rapier | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
