2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 33 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 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 480 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.
Because 1971 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 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Sunbeam |
| Model | 156 | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
