2007 Lexus IS vs. 1974 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2007 Lexus IS is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 2,499 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus IS (205 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus IS weights approximately 735 kg more than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lexus IS | 1974 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Lexus | Sunbeam |
| Model | IS | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
