1974 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1988 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 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 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 200 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1974 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1974 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Sunbeam Rapier | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Sunbeam | Volkswagen |
Model | Rapier | Golf |
Year Released | 1974 | 1988 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1725 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 53 HP |
Torque | 126 Nm | 96 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81.5 mm | 75.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |