1971 Ford Zephyr vs. 1999 Ford Fiesta

To start off, 1999 Ford Fiesta is newer by 28 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, 1999 Ford Fiesta (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (81 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 274 kg more than 1999 Ford Fiesta.

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, 1999 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1999 Ford Fiesta (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Zephyr.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Ford Zephyr 1999 Ford Fiesta
Make Ford Ford
Model Zephyr Fiesta
Year Released 1971 1999
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1996 cc 1599 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 81 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 4750 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 153 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93.7 mm 79 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72.4 mm 81.4 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1250 kg 976 kg
Vehicle Length 4710 mm 3830 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2930 mm 2450 mm