1996 Kia Avella vs. 1974 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1996 Kia Avella is newer by 22 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, 1996 Kia Avella (87 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Kia Avella should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 85 kg more than 1996 Kia Avella.
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, 1996 Kia Avella, 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, 1996 Kia Avella (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Kia Avella will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Kia Avella | 1974 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Kia | Sunbeam |
| Model | Avella | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2510 mm |
