1981 Jaguar XJS vs. 1957 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1981 Jaguar XJS is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 5,344 cc (12 cylinders), 1981 Jaguar XJS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Jaguar XJS (299 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 237 more horse power than 1957 Sunbeam Rapier. (62 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Jaguar XJS should accelerate faster than 1957 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Jaguar XJS weights approximately 642 kg more than 1957 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1981 Jaguar XJS has automatic transmission and 1957 Sunbeam Rapier has manual transmission. 1957 Sunbeam Rapier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Jaguar XJS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Jaguar XJS | 1957 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Jaguar | Sunbeam |
| Model | XJS | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1957 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5344 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 299 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1707 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2440 mm |
