2003 Nissan 350Z vs. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2003 Nissan 350Z is newer by 32 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 460 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.
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 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Nissan 350Z | 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Nissan | Sunbeam |
| Model | 350Z | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 265 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 68 L |
