1959 Ford Zephyr vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 49 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1959 Ford Zephyr. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 108 kg more than 1959 Ford Zephyr. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1959 Ford Zephyr will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1959 Ford Zephyr 2008 Volkswagen Golf
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Zephyr Golf
Year Released 1959 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2552 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 72 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Vehicle Weight 1176 kg 1284 kg
Vehicle Length 4560 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1520 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2520 mm