1990 Chrysler Le Baron vs. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1990 Chrysler Le Baron is newer by 19 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 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Chrysler Le Baron is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Chrysler Le Baron (139 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Chrysler Le Baron should accelerate faster than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Chrysler Le Baron weights approximately 420 kg more than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. 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, 1990 Chrysler Le Baron, 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, 1990 Chrysler Le Baron (223 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1990 Chrysler Le Baron will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Chrysler Le Baron | 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Chrysler | Sunbeam |
| Model | Le Baron | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2972 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 68 L |
