1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1980 Austin Mini Metro is newer by 10 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 17 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 276 kg more than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. 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, 1980 Austin Mini Metro, 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 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1970 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Mini Metro.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Austin Mini Metro | 1970 Sunbeam Rapier | |
Make | Austin | Sunbeam |
Model | Mini Metro | Rapier |
Year Released | 1980 | 1970 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1257 cc | 1725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 62 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 97 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 70.7 mm | 81.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.2:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 68 L |