1966 Ford Zephyr vs. 1981 GMC Suburban
To start off, 1981 GMC Suburban is newer by 15 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 GMC Suburban (130 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (72 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 GMC Suburban should accelerate faster than 1966 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 GMC Suburban weights approximately 1084 kg more than 1966 Ford Zephyr. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1966 Ford Zephyr. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 GMC Suburban will offer significantly more control. 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, 1981 GMC Suburban (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (128 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 GMC Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Zephyr | 1981 GMC Suburban | |
| Make | Ford | GMC |
| Model | Zephyr | Suburban |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1703 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3300 mm |
