1981 Fiat 127 vs. 1972 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1981 Fiat 127 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 127. (44 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 195 kg more than 1981 Fiat 127. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Fiat 127, 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, 1972 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 127. (75 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 127 | 1972 Sunbeam Rapier | |
Make | Fiat | Sunbeam |
Model | 127 | Rapier |
Year Released | 1981 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1301 cc | 1725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 44 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 75 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 81.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 20.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2510 mm |