1987 Buick Electra vs. 1974 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1987 Buick Electra is newer by 13 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Buick Electra (139 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Buick Electra weights approximately 450 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, 1987 Buick Electra, 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, 1987 Buick Electra (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1987 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Buick Electra | 1974 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Buick | Sunbeam |
| Model | Electra | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2510 mm |
