2007 Citroen Xsara vs. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2007 Citroen Xsara is newer by 36 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, 2007 Citroen Xsara (108 HP) has 29 more horse power than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 207 kg more than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 Citroen Xsara, 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, 2007 Citroen Xsara (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Citroen Xsara | 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Citroen | Sunbeam |
| Model | Xsara | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 79 HP |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.6 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1237 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 68 L |
