2006 Mazda 6 vs. 1973 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2006 Mazda 6 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 2,966 cc, 2006 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 6 (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 6 weights approximately 99 kg more than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 6, 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 Mazda 6 (270 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 6 | 1973 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Mazda | Sunbeam |
| Model | 6 | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1725 cc |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 68 L |
