1973 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 1999 Acura EL
To start off, 1999 Acura EL is newer by 26 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 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Acura EL (127 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Acura EL should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Acura EL weights approximately 49 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, 1999 Acura EL, 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, 1999 Acura EL (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1999 Acura EL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Sunbeam Rapier | 1999 Acura EL | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Acura |
| Model | Rapier | EL |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2619 mm |
