2005 Proton Saloon vs. 1973 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2005 Proton Saloon 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 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Proton Saloon (82 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Proton Saloon should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 110 kg more than 2005 Proton Saloon.
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 Proton Saloon, 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, 1973 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Proton Saloon. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Proton Saloon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Proton Saloon | 1973 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Proton | Sunbeam |
| Model | Saloon | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2510 mm |
