1966 Ford Zephyr vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 39 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 22 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Ford Zephyr should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 15 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, 2005 Mazda 3, 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 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1966 Ford Zephyr will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Zephyr | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Zephyr | 3 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2992 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
