2009 Mitsubishi Lancer vs. 1976 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. (79 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier.
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 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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 Mitsubishi Lancer (226 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Sunbeam Rapier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer | 1976 Sunbeam Rapier | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Sunbeam |
| Model | Lancer | Rapier |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1725 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 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 Length | 4580 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 68 L |
