2008 BMW 323 vs. 1975 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2008 BMW 323 is newer by 33 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 2,494 cc, 2008 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 323 (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 323 weights approximately 460 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.
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, 2008 BMW 323 (230 Nm) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 1975 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | BMW | Sunbeam |
| Model | 323 | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1725 cc |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
