1992 Citroen ZX vs. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier

To start off, 1992 Citroen ZX is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,905 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Citroen ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Citroen ZX (150 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Citroen ZX should accelerate faster than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Citroen ZX weights approximately 120 kg more than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1970 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 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Citroen ZX, 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, 1992 Citroen ZX (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1992 Citroen ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier.

Compare all specifications:

1992 Citroen ZX 1970 Sunbeam Rapier
Make Citroen Sunbeam
Model ZX Rapier
Year Released 1992 1970
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1905 cc 1725 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 150 HP 79 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 183 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.4:1 9.2:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1150 kg 1030 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2510 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 56 L 68 L