2003 Subaru R2 vs. 1968 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2003 Subaru R2 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (62 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 196 kg more than 2003 Subaru R2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru R2, 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, 1968 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (103 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1968 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru R2 | 1968 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Subaru | Sunbeam |
| Model | R2 | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 658 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 56 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.8 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 834 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 68 L |
