2008 Opel Astra vs. 1975 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 280 kg more 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 Opel Astra, 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 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1975 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Opel | Sunbeam |
| Model | Astra | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 79 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.2 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 68 L |
