2005 Renault Clio vs. 1976 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2005 Renault Clio 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, 1976 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2005 Renault Clio. (73 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 2005 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Clio weights approximately 135 kg more than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier.
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 Renault Clio, 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 @ 3800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Renault Clio. (105 Nm @ 1700 RPM). This means 1976 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Renault Clio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Renault Clio | 1976 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Renault | Sunbeam |
| Model | Clio | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1460 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.9:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
