1971 Ford Zephyr vs. 2005 Opel Signum
To start off, 2005 Opel Signum is newer by 34 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, 2005 Opel Signum (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (81 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Signum weights approximately 232 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, 2005 Opel Signum, 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, 2005 Opel Signum (165 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Zephyr | 2005 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Zephyr | Signum |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1482 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2840 mm |
