2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1968 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 36 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 2,425 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1968 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1968 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 377 kg more than 1968 Sunbeam Rapier. 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, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (339 Nm) has 213 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm). This means 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1968 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Chrysler | Sunbeam |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2425 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 68 L |
