2004 Citroen C3 vs. 1976 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2004 Citroen C3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2004 Citroen C3. (58 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 2004 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen C3 weights approximately 23 kg more than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier.
Because 1976 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 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Citroen C3, 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, 1976 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Citroen C3. (110 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1976 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen C3 | 1976 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Citroen | Sunbeam |
| Model | C3 | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1053 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 68 L |
