1977 Austin Maxi vs. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1977 Austin Maxi is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1977 Austin Maxi. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1977 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 50 kg more than 1977 Austin Maxi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Austin Maxi, 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, 1970 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1970 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Austin Maxi | 1970 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Austin | Sunbeam |
| Model | Maxi | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 68 L |
