2005 Citroen Xsara vs. 1976 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 29 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, 2005 Citroen Xsara (108 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 40 kg more than 2005 Citroen Xsara.
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, 2005 Citroen Xsara, 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) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (110 Nm). This means 1976 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen Xsara | 1976 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Citroen | Sunbeam |
| Model | Xsara | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1559 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
