1966 Ford Zephyr vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 46 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (126 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1966 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 30 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
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, 2012 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 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1966 Ford Zephyr will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford Zephyr | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Zephyr | 3 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2012 |
| 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 | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
