2002 Citroen Xsara vs. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2002 Citroen Xsara is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2002 Citroen Xsara. (72 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 2002 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 50 kg more than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier.
Because 1970 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 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Citroen Xsara, 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, 1970 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1970 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Citroen Xsara | 1970 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Citroen | Sunbeam |
| Model | Xsara | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 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 | 1080 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 68 L |
