2009 Ford Taurus vs. 1974 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Sunbeam Rapier would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Sunbeam Rapier weights approximately 64 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus.
Because 1974 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 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus, 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 Ford Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus | 1974 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Ford | Sunbeam |
| Model | Taurus | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 68 L |
