1971 Ford Zephyr vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Ford Zephyr is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford Zephyr (81 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford Zephyr should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 370 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Ford Zephyr. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1971 Ford Zephyr (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1971 Ford Zephyr will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Ford Zephyr | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Zephyr | Passat |
Year Released | 1971 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1272 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 81 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 95 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 75 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 72 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2480 mm |