1966 Ford Zephyr vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 43 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 2,553 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (113 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1966 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 165 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, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Zephyr | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Zephyr | 3 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2553 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 60.4 mm | 94 mm |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
