2009 Ford Ka vs. 1970 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2009 Ford Ka is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2009 Ford Ka. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Sunbeam Rapier should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Ka.
Because 1970 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 1970 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Ka, 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, 1970 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1970 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Ka | 1970 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Ford | Sunbeam |
| Model | Ka | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 68 L |
