1997 BMW 850 vs. 1957 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1997 BMW 850 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 267 more horse power than 1957 Sunbeam Rapier. (62 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1957 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 880 kg more than 1957 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1997 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 1957 Sunbeam Rapier has manual transmission. 1957 Sunbeam Rapier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 850 | 1957 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | BMW | Sunbeam |
| Model | 850 | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1957 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5379 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 329 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2440 mm |
