2006 Opel Astra vs. 1968 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1968 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1968 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 300 kg more than 1968 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra, 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 Opel Astra (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Astra | 1968 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Opel | Sunbeam |
| Model | Astra | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1246 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 68 L |
