2006 Audi S4 vs. 1974 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2006 Audi S4 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Audi S4 (340 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 261 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi S4 weights approximately 854 kg more than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi S4, 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, 2006 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi S4 | 1974 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Audi | Sunbeam |
| Model | S4 | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1884 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
