2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 775 kg more than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (323 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Sunbeam |
| Model | 159 | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3195 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1805 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
