1966 Ford Zephyr vs. 1999 Holden Astra
To start off, 1999 Holden Astra is newer by 33 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Holden Astra (120 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (72 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1966 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Holden Astra weights approximately 4 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 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, 1999 Holden 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, 1999 Holden Astra (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (128 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Zephyr | 1999 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Zephyr | Astra |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1703 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2610 mm |
