1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 27 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 1,761 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 50 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara, 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, 1998 Citroen Xsara (153 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Citroen | Sunbeam |
| Model | Xsara | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1761 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2510 mm |
