1966 Ford Zephyr vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 45 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, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (126 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1966 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 205 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, 2011 Kia Optima, 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (235 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Zephyr | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Zephyr | Optima |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2992 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
