2003 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1973 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 1124 kg more than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 323 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet SSR | 1973 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Sunbeam |
| Model | SSR | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5316 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 449 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2154 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2510 mm |
