1974 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 2013 Lincoln MKZ
To start off, 2013 Lincoln MKZ is newer by 39 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Lincoln MKZ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Lincoln MKZ (237 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Lincoln MKZ should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Lincoln MKZ weights approximately 590 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, 2013 Lincoln MKZ, 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, 2013 Lincoln MKZ (366 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 Lincoln MKZ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Sunbeam Rapier | 2013 Lincoln MKZ | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Lincoln |
| Model | Rapier | MKZ |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 2116 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1478 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 63 L |
