1976 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 2002 Seat Alhambra
To start off, 2002 Seat Alhambra is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Seat Alhambra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Seat Alhambra (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Seat Alhambra should accelerate faster than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Seat Alhambra weights approximately 638 kg more than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. 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, 2002 Seat Alhambra, 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, 2002 Seat Alhambra (214 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Seat Alhambra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Sunbeam Rapier | 2002 Seat Alhambra | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Seat |
| Model | Rapier | Alhambra |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| 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 | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1668 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
