1970 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1959 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1970 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 7,462 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Pontiac Firebird (296 HP) has 219 more horse power than 1959 Sunbeam Rapier. (77 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1959 Sunbeam Rapier.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Pontiac Firebird | 1959 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Pontiac | Sunbeam |
| Model | Firebird | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7462 cc | 1494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 77 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2440 mm |
