1987 Buick Regal vs. 1974 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1987 Buick Regal 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 2,843 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Buick Regal (135 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Buick Regal should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Buick Regal weights approximately 310 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 Regal, 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 Regal (244 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1987 Buick Regal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Buick Regal | 1974 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Buick | Sunbeam |
| Model | Regal | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2843 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 68 L |
