2003 Opel Speedster vs. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2003 Opel Speedster 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 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Speedster (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 25 kg more than 2003 Opel Speedster.
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 Opel Speedster (250 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Speedster | 1970 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Opel | Sunbeam |
| Model | Speedster | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 68 L |
