1966 Ford Zephyr vs. 1986 Ford Taurus
To start off, 1986 Ford Taurus is newer by 20 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 25 more horse power than 1986 Ford Taurus. (101 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Ford Zephyr should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Taurus weights approximately 70 kg more than 1966 Ford Zephyr.
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, 1986 Ford Taurus, 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 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Taurus. (187 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1966 Ford Zephyr will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Taurus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Zephyr | 1986 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Zephyr | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2992 cc | 2513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2700 mm |
