1962 Ford Zephyr vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 46 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 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1962 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (282 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1962 Ford Zephyr. (103 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1962 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 306 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, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (576 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 391 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Ford Zephyr. (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Ford Zephyr | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Zephyr | 3 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1179 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
