1959 Fairthorpe Zeta vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Fairthorpe Zeta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Fairthorpe Zeta would be higher. At 2,553 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Fairthorpe Zeta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 752 kg more than 1959 Fairthorpe Zeta.
Because 1959 Fairthorpe Zeta 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 1959 Fairthorpe Zeta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50, 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Fairthorpe Zeta. (217 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Fairthorpe Zeta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Fairthorpe Zeta | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Fairthorpe | Volvo |
| Model | Zeta | V50 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2553 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 673 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2800 mm |
