1997 Buick Century vs. 1972 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1997 Buick Century is newer by 25 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Century (165 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Century weights approximately 490 kg more than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Buick Century, 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, 1997 Buick Century (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Buick Century | 1972 Sunbeam Rapier | |
Make | Buick | Sunbeam |
Model | Century | Rapier |
Year Released | 1997 | 1972 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 68 L |