1976 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 28 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), 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 434 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Sunbeam Rapier | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rapier | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| 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 | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
