2008 Audi A3 vs. 1974 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 34 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 455 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.
Because 1974 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 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3, 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, 2008 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1974 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Audi | Sunbeam |
| Model | A3 | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 82.7 mm |
| 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 | 1485 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
