1976 Sunbeam Rapier vs. 2008 Volkswagen Touareg
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Touareg 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 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Touareg is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Touareg (345 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Touareg should accelerate faster than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Touareg weights approximately 1226 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 2008 Volkswagen Touareg is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Touareg will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Touareg (440 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Touareg will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Sunbeam Rapier | 2008 Volkswagen Touareg | |
| Make | Sunbeam | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rapier | Touareg |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1725 cc | 4163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 345 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 2256 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 100 L |
