2005 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 478 kg more than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | 1970 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Sunbeam |
| Model | Malibu | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 68 L |
