2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1975 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (114 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (146 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1975 Sunbeam Rapier | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Sunbeam |
Model | 156 | Rapier |
Year Released | 2002 | 1975 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |