2004 MG ZS vs. 1973 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2004 MG ZS is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 MG ZS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 MG ZS (175 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 MG ZS should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 MG ZS weights approximately 115 kg more than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 MG ZS, 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 MG ZS (240 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 MG ZS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 MG ZS | 1973 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | MG | Sunbeam |
| Model | ZS | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
