2009 Chevrolet HHR vs. 1973 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet HHR (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet HHR weights approximately 440 kg more than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet HHR, 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 HHR (222 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet HHR | 1973 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Sunbeam |
| Model | HHR | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 68 L |
