1971 Ford Zephyr vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata

To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 37 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (81 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 436 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Zephyr.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Ford Zephyr 2008 Hyundai Sonata
Make Ford Hyundai
Model Zephyr Sonata
Year Released 1971 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1996 cc 1991 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 81 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 4750 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 153 Nm 305 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 1800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1250 kg 1686 kg
Vehicle Length 4710 mm 4810 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1830 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2930 mm 2740 mm