1959 Ford Zephyr vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 2,552 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1959 Ford Zephyr. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 130 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1959 Ford Zephyr 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 Ford Zephyr. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323, 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, 1959 Ford Zephyr (180 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1959 Ford Zephyr will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Ford Zephyr | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Zephyr | 323 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2552 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1176 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
