1966 Ford Zephyr vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 40 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 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (105 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1966 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 18 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (180 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Zephyr | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Zephyr | Passat |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2720 mm |
