1966 Ford Zephyr vs. 1986 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1986 Lancia Thema 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, 1986 Lancia Thema (165 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (126 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1966 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 180 kg more than 1986 Lancia Thema.
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 Lancia Thema, 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, 1986 Lancia Thema (285 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (235 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Lancia Thema will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Zephyr | 1986 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Ford | Lancia |
| Model | Zephyr | Thema |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2992 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2670 mm |
