1974 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 236 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 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 New Beetle, 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 New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 New Beetle | |
Make | Sunbeam | Volkswagen |
Model | Rapier | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1725 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81.5 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1266 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |