1974 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 33 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 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier.
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, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Sunbeam Rapier | 2007 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rapier | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.5 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
