1976 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 32 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (200 HP) has 121 more horse power than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 191 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo, 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (85 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1976 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Sunbeam Rapier | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rapier | Polo |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1221 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 45 L |
