1971 Ford Zephyr vs. 2012 Chevrolet Optra
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Optra 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 Optra (108 HP) has 27 more horse power than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Optra should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 1135 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, 2012 Chevrolet Optra, 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, 1971 Ford Zephyr (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Optra. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Ford Zephyr will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Optra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Zephyr | 2012 Chevrolet Optra | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Zephyr | Optra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 2385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2610 mm |
