1961 Ford Zodiac vs. 2011 Ford Mondeo
To start off, 2011 Ford Mondeo is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Mondeo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Mondeo (223 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 348 kg more than 1961 Ford Zodiac. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Ford Zodiac. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Mondeo, 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, 2011 Ford Mondeo (281 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Mondeo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Zodiac.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Zodiac | 2011 Ford Mondeo | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Zodiac | Mondeo |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2552 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1539 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 59 L |
