2006 Seat Cordoba vs. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2006 Seat Cordoba 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 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2006 Seat Cordoba. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 2006 Seat Cordoba. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Seat Cordoba weights approximately 60 kg more than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier.
Because 1971 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 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Seat Cordoba, 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, both vehicles can yield 126 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Seat Cordoba | 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Seat | Sunbeam |
| Model | Cordoba | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 68 L |
