1971 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 1977 Holden Statesman
To start off, 1977 Holden Statesman is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 5,042 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Holden Statesman (214 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Holden Statesman weights approximately 515 kg more than 1971 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, 1977 Holden Statesman (400 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1977 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | 1977 Holden Statesman | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Holden |
| Model | Rapier | Statesman |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 5042 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 214 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2900 mm |
