2009 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1976 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (155 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 720 kg more than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt, 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 Chevrolet Cobalt (203 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1976 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Sunbeam |
| Model | Cobalt | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2201 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 68 L |
