1971 Ford Zephyr vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (81 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 350 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Zephyr | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Zephyr | IS |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2731 mm |
