2008 Mercedes-Benz CL vs. 1957 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 321 more horse power than 1957 Sunbeam Rapier. (62 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1957 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 930 kg more than 1957 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1957 Sunbeam Rapier has manual transmission. 1957 Sunbeam Rapier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL | 1957 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Sunbeam |
| Model | CL | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1957 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5461 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 383 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2440 mm |
