1966 Ford Zephyr vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 30 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 2,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (72 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster 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, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (128 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Zephyr | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Zephyr | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1703 cc | 2800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
