1962 Ford Zephyr vs. 2011 Kia Optima

To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 49 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, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1962 Ford Zephyr. (103 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1962 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 356 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, 2011 Kia Optima, 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 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Ford Zephyr. (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Ford Zephyr.

Compare all specifications:

1962 Ford Zephyr 2011 Kia Optima
Make Ford Kia
Model Zephyr Optima
Year Released 1962 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2495 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 103 HP 274 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 185 Nm 364 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 1750 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 1535 kg
Vehicle Length 4590 mm 4844 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1831 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1455 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2797 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 70 L