1971 Ford Zephyr vs. 1988 Saab 9000
To start off, 1988 Saab 9000 is newer by 17 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, 1988 Saab 9000 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (81 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Saab 9000 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1971 Ford Zephyr. 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, 1988 Saab 9000, 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, 1988 Saab 9000 (290 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1988 Saab 9000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Zephyr | 1988 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Ford | Saab |
| Model | Zephyr | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2670 mm |
