1962 Ford Zephyr vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1962 Ford Zephyr. (103 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1962 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 491 kg more than 1962 Ford Zephyr. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Ford Zephyr. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum, 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, 2003 Opel Signum (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Ford Zephyr. (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Ford Zephyr | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Zephyr | Signum |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 144 km/hour | 221 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1179 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
