1988 Nissan Micra vs. 1974 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1988 Nissan Micra is newer by 14 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 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1988 Nissan Micra. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1988 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 365 kg more than 1988 Nissan Micra. 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, 1988 Nissan Micra, 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, 1974 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Nissan Micra. (73 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1974 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Nissan Micra | 1974 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Nissan | Sunbeam |
| Model | Micra | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 665 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2510 mm |
