1973 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 1994 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1994 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volkswagen Golf (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 160 kg more than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1994 Volkswagen Golf (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1994 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Sunbeam Rapier | 1994 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Sunbeam | Volkswagen |
Model | Rapier | Golf |
Year Released | 1973 | 1994 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1725 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81.5 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1190 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2480 mm |