1987 Ford Laser vs. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1987 Ford Laser is newer by 16 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 13 more horse power than 1987 Ford Laser. (66 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 230 kg more than 1987 Ford Laser. 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, 1987 Ford Laser, 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 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Laser. (94 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1971 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Laser | 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Ford | Sunbeam |
| Model | Laser | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
