2002 Ford Taurus vs. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2002 Ford Taurus is newer by 31 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 2,933 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Taurus weights approximately 447 kg more than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. 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, 2002 Ford Taurus, 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 Ford Taurus (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Ford Taurus | 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | |
Make | Ford | Sunbeam |
Model | Taurus | Rapier |
Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2933 cc | 1725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 244 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1477 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 68 L |