1998 Mitsubishi Magna vs. 1973 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1998 Mitsubishi Magna is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mitsubishi Magna (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Magna should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 480 kg more than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Magna, 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 Mitsubishi Magna (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Magna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mitsubishi Magna | 1973 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Sunbeam |
| Model | Magna | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
