2004 Fiat Palio vs. 1974 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2004 Fiat Palio is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Palio. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Palio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 125 kg more than 2004 Fiat Palio. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Palio, 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, 1974 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Fiat Palio. (84 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Fiat Palio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Palio | 1974 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Fiat | Sunbeam |
| Model | Palio | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 999 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 905 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2510 mm |
