2006 Lexus IS vs. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2006 Lexus IS 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 3,441 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Lexus IS (376 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lexus IS | 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Lexus | Sunbeam |
| Model | IS | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3441 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 376 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
