2001 Audi TT vs. 1973 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2001 Audi TT is newer by 28 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Audi TT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi TT (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi TT should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi TT weights approximately 280 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, 2001 Audi TT, 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, 2001 Audi TT (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 Audi TT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi TT | 1973 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Audi | Sunbeam |
| Model | TT | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
