1982 Citroen BX vs. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1982 Citroen BX is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,905 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Citroen BX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1982 Citroen BX. (71 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1982 Citroen BX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 44 kg more than 1982 Citroen BX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Citroen BX, 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, 1971 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Citroen BX. (122 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1971 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Citroen BX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Citroen BX | 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Citroen | Sunbeam |
| Model | BX | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1905 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 986 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 68 L |
