2008 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 195 kg more than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 Mercedes-Benz A (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mercedes-Benz A | 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Sunbeam |
Model | A | Rapier |
Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 94 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69.2 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 68 L |