1972 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 2004 Volvo S60
To start off, 2004 Volvo S60 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S60 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S60 weights approximately 512 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.
Because 1972 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 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S60, 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, 2004 Volvo S60 (330 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Sunbeam Rapier | 2004 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Volvo |
| Model | Rapier | S60 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
