1970 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1970 Sunbeam Rapier is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 170 kg more than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Sunbeam Rapier | 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rapier | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2430 mm |
