1983 Citroen BX vs. 1975 Sunbeam Rapier

To start off, 1983 Citroen BX is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,905 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Citroen BX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1983 Citroen BX. (64 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1983 Citroen BX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 40 kg more than 1983 Citroen BX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1975 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 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1975 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Citroen BX. (123 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1975 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Citroen BX.

Compare all specifications:

1983 Citroen BX 1975 Sunbeam Rapier
Make Citroen Sunbeam
Model BX Rapier
Year Released 1983 1975
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1905 cc 1725 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 64 HP 79 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 123 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
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 990 kg 1030 kg
Vehicle Length 4240 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2510 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 68 L