2005 Nissan Maxima vs. 1973 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2005 Nissan Maxima is newer by 32 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 3,507 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Maxima (276 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 548 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, 2005 Nissan Maxima, 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 Nissan Maxima (346 Nm) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Maxima | 1973 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Nissan | Sunbeam |
| Model | Maxima | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3507 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 68 L |
