1971 Ford Zephyr vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Vectra (153 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (81 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 220 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 Opel Vectra, 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 Opel Vectra (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Zephyr | 2008 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Zephyr | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2710 mm |
