1983 Austin Ambassador vs. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1983 Austin Ambassador is newer by 12 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 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Austin Ambassador (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Austin Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 175 kg more than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. 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, 1983 Austin Ambassador, 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, 1983 Austin Ambassador (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1983 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Ambassador | 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Austin | Sunbeam |
| Model | Ambassador | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1698 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
