1974 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 2011 Ford Escape
To start off, 2011 Ford Escape is newer by 37 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Escape (177 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Escape weights approximately 634 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, 2011 Ford Escape, 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, 2011 Ford Escape (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Sunbeam Rapier | 2011 Ford Escape | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Ford |
| Model | Rapier | Escape |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1664 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4437 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2619 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 57 L |
