1974 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 1985 Chevrolet Astro
To start off, 1985 Chevrolet Astro is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Chevrolet Astro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Chevrolet Astro (183 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Chevrolet Astro should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Chevrolet Astro weights approximately 865 kg more than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Chevrolet Astro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Chevrolet Astro will offer significantly more control. 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, 1985 Chevrolet Astro (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1985 Chevrolet Astro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Sunbeam Rapier | 1985 Chevrolet Astro | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Chevrolet |
| Model | Rapier | Astro |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.5 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2830 mm |
