1971 Ford Zephyr vs. 2004 Chevrolet Prizm

To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Prizm is newer by 33 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, 2004 Chevrolet Prizm (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (81 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Prizm should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 160 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Prizm.

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, 2004 Chevrolet Prizm, 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, 2004 Chevrolet Prizm (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2004 Chevrolet Prizm will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Zephyr.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Ford Zephyr 2004 Chevrolet Prizm
Make Ford Chevrolet
Model Zephyr Prizm
Year Released 1971 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1996 cc 1794 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 81 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 4750 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 153 Nm 169 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1250 kg 1090 kg
Vehicle Length 4710 mm 4430 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2930 mm 2470 mm