1999 Ford Ka vs. 1972 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1999 Ford Ka is newer by 27 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 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1999 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 150 kg more than 1999 Ford Ka. 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, 1999 Ford Ka, 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, 1972 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1972 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Ka | 1972 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Ford | Sunbeam |
| Model | Ka | Rapier |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 68 L |
