2009 Buick Lucerne vs. 1971 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2009 Buick Lucerne is newer by 38 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 3,880 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Buick Lucerne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick Lucerne (227 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick Lucerne should accelerate faster than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick Lucerne weights approximately 587 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, 2009 Buick Lucerne, 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 Buick Lucerne (321 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Buick Lucerne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Buick Lucerne | 1971 Sunbeam Rapier | |
Make | Buick | Sunbeam |
Model | Lucerne | Rapier |
Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3880 cc | 1725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 227 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 321 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 68 L |