2003 Alfa Romeo GT vs. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT is newer by 33 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo GT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT should accelerate faster than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo GT weights approximately 380 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT, 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo GT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo GT | 1970 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Sunbeam |
| Model | GT | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
