1956 Ford Zodiac vs. 1985 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1985 Ford Tempo is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,552 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Ford Zodiac is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Tempo (100 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1956 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Tempo should accelerate faster than 1956 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Ford Zodiac weights approximately 27 kg more than 1985 Ford Tempo.
Because 1956 Ford Zodiac 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 1956 Ford Zodiac. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Ford Tempo, 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, 1956 Ford Zodiac (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1956 Ford Zodiac will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Ford Zodiac | 1985 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Zodiac | Tempo |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2552 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2540 mm |
