1966 Ford Zephyr vs. 1979 Renault 12
To start off, 1979 Renault 12 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Ford Zephyr (88 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1979 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Ford Zephyr should accelerate faster than 1979 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 344 kg more than 1979 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 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 1966 Ford Zephyr. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Renault 12, 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, 1966 Ford Zephyr (167 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1966 Ford Zephyr will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Zephyr | 1979 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Zephyr | 12 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2450 mm |
