1982 Opel Ascona vs. 1974 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1982 Opel Ascona is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Opel Ascona (81 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Opel Ascona should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Opel Ascona weights approximately 35 kg more than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Opel Ascona, 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, 1982 Opel Ascona (131 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1982 Opel Ascona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Opel Ascona | 1974 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Opel | Sunbeam |
| Model | Ascona | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 68 L |
