2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1970 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 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1970 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Mazda | Sunbeam |
| Model | RX-8 | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 68 L |
