1971 Jensen Interceptor vs. 1972 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1972 Sunbeam Rapier is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Jensen Interceptor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Jensen Interceptor would be higher. At 6,286 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Jensen Interceptor is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Jensen Interceptor (300 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 221 more horse power than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Jensen Interceptor should accelerate faster than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Jensen Interceptor weights approximately 784 kg more than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1971 Jensen Interceptor (556 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 430 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1971 Jensen Interceptor will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Jensen Interceptor | 1972 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Jensen | Sunbeam |
| Model | Interceptor | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6286 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 556 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 108 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1814 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 68 L |
