1971 Ford Zephyr vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo 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 Volkswagen Polo (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (81 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 64 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 Volkswagen Polo, 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 Volkswagen Polo (335 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Zephyr.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Ford Zephyr 2005 Volkswagen Polo
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Zephyr Polo
Year Released 1971 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1996 cc 1896 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 81 HP 128 HP
Engine RPM 4750 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 153 Nm 335 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 1900 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93.7 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72.4 mm 95.5 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1250 kg 1314 kg
Vehicle Length 4710 mm 3900 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2930 mm 2470 mm