2009 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1972 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 (104 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 236 kg more than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 (140 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1972 Sunbeam Rapier | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Sunbeam |
Model | 147 | Rapier |
Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 82.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 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 | 1266 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 68 L |