1971 Ford Zephyr vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2003 Mazda 2 is newer by 32 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 14 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford Zephyr should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 165 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. 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, 2003 Mazda 2, 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, 2003 Mazda 2 (168 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Zephyr | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Zephyr | 2 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2500 mm |
