1975 Mini MK III vs. 1976 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1976 Sunbeam Rapier is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mini MK III would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1975 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1975 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 420 kg more than 1975 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Mini MK III, 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, 1976 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1976 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Mini MK III | 1976 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Mini | Sunbeam |
| Model | MK III | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2510 mm |
