1999 Chevrolet Metro vs. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1999 Chevrolet Metro is newer by 28 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 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1999 Chevrolet Metro. (53 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1999 Chevrolet Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 130 kg more than 1999 Chevrolet Metro. 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, 1999 Chevrolet Metro, 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, 1971 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Chevrolet Metro. (79 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1971 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Chevrolet Metro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Chevrolet Metro | 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Sunbeam |
| Model | Metro | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 999 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2510 mm |
