2007 Mazda 3 vs. 1975 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (241 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 1975 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Mazda | Sunbeam |
| Model | 3 | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
