2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 134 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Lotus Elise (187 Nm) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm). This means 2005 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Lotus Elise | 1970 Sunbeam Rapier | |
Make | Lotus | Sunbeam |
Model | Elise | Rapier |
Year Released | 2005 | 1970 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 126 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 896 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2510 mm |