2002 Renault Megane vs. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2002 Renault Megane 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, 2002 Renault Megane (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Megane weights approximately 85 kg more than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Renault Megane, 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 Renault Megane (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Renault Megane | 1970 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Renault | Sunbeam |
| Model | Megane | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1461 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 82.7 mm |
| 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 | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 68 L |
