1979 Citroen GSA vs. 1976 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1979 Citroen GSA is newer by 3 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 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1979 Citroen GSA. (64 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen GSA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 110 kg more than 1979 Citroen GSA. 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, 1979 Citroen GSA, 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Citroen GSA. (94 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Citroen GSA.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Citroen GSA | 1976 Sunbeam Rapier | |
Make | Citroen | Sunbeam |
Model | GSA | Rapier |
Year Released | 1979 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
Horse Power | 64 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 94 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 9.2:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2510 mm |