1970 Ford Zephyr vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 2,258 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1970 Ford Zephyr. (81 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 125 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1970 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 1970 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 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Ford Zephyr. (154 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Ford Zephyr | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Zephyr | 3 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2258 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 154 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2650 mm |
