2009 Fiat 500 vs. 1976 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2009 Fiat 500 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 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Fiat 500 (101 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 25 kg more than 2009 Fiat 500.
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 Fiat 500, 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 Fiat 500 (132 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Fiat 500 | 1976 Sunbeam Rapier | |
Make | Fiat | Sunbeam |
Model | 500 | Rapier |
Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1368 cc | 1725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 101 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1005 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3550 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 68 L |