1982 Alfa Romeo Alfasud vs. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1982 Alfa Romeo Alfasud is newer by 12 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, 1982 Alfa Romeo Alfasud (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Alfa Romeo Alfasud should accelerate faster than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 136 kg more than 1982 Alfa Romeo Alfasud.
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, 1982 Alfa Romeo Alfasud, 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Alfa Romeo Alfasud. (111 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1970 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Alfa Romeo Alfasud.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Alfa Romeo Alfasud | 1970 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Sunbeam |
| Model | Alfasud | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1351 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.2 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 | 894 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 68 L |
