1970 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 1993 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1993 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Volkswagen Passat (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 210 kg more than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1993 Volkswagen Passat (172 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1993 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Sunbeam Rapier | 1993 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rapier | Passat |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.6 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1750 mm |
