1989 Ford Escort vs. 1972 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
Because 1972 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 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Escort, 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, 1972 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 1972 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Ford | Sunbeam |
| Model | Escort | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 68 L |
