1966 Ford Zephyr vs. 1981 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 1981 Vauxhall Astra 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 2,992 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Ford Zephyr (126 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Ford Zephyr should accelerate faster than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 490 kg more than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. 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, 1981 Vauxhall Astra, 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 (235 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Vauxhall Astra. (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1966 Ford Zephyr will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Zephyr | 1981 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Vauxhall |
| Model | Zephyr | Astra |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2992 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2520 mm |
