2008 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1975 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu 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 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier.
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, 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, 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 Chevrolet Malibu (216 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Malibu | 1975 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Sunbeam |
| Model | Malibu | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 68 L |
