1969 Ford Zephyr vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1969 Ford Zephyr. (81 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1969 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 10 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3.
Because 1969 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 1969 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (225 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Ford Zephyr. (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Ford Zephyr | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Zephyr | 3 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 41 L | 55 L |
