1978 Lancia Beta vs. 1974 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1978 Lancia Beta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Lancia Beta (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 30 kg more than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Because 1974 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 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Lancia Beta, 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, 1974 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1974 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lancia Beta | 1974 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Lancia | Sunbeam |
| Model | Beta | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 68 L |
