2006 BMW 530 vs. 1972 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2006 BMW 530 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 530 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 530 weights approximately 720 kg more than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 530 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 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 BMW 530 (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 530 | 1972 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | BMW | Sunbeam |
| Model | 530 | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.2:1 |
| 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 | 1750 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
