1971 Ford Zephyr vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 41 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (138 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (81 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Zephyr.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (200 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Zephyr | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Zephyr | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2685 mm |
