1974 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 2007 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Polo (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 165 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 Polo, 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 Polo (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Polo 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 Polo | |
Make | Sunbeam | Volkswagen |
Model | Rapier | Polo |
Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1725 cc | 1894 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 99 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 19.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1195 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 45 L |