1985 Alfa Romeo Arna vs. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1985 Alfa Romeo Arna is newer by 14 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, 1971 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1985 Alfa Romeo Arna. (67 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1985 Alfa Romeo Arna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 180 kg more than 1985 Alfa Romeo Arna. 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, 1985 Alfa Romeo Arna, 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 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Alfa Romeo Arna. (90 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1971 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Alfa Romeo Arna.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Alfa Romeo Arna | 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Sunbeam |
| Model | Arna | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1185 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2510 mm |
