1986 Citroen BX vs. 1975 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1986 Citroen BX is newer by 11 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 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Citroen BX (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Citroen BX should accelerate faster than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 40 kg more than 1986 Citroen BX.
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, 1986 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, 1986 Citroen BX (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1986 Citroen BX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Citroen BX | 1975 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Citroen | Sunbeam |
| Model | BX | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 4400 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 68 L |
