1973 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 39 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 431 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Sunbeam Rapier | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Sunbeam | Volkswagen |
Model | Rapier | Passat |
Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1725 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4250 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 | 1461 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4769 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2712 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |