1997 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1965 Ford Zephyr

To start off, 1997 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1965 Ford Zephyr. (72 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1965 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 475 kg more than 1965 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, 1997 Ford Thunderbird (291 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Ford Zephyr. (128 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Ford Zephyr.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Ford Thunderbird 1965 Ford Zephyr
Make Ford Ford
Model Thunderbird Zephyr
Year Released 1997 1965
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3791 cc 1703 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 72 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 291 Nm 128 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1620 kg 1145 kg
Vehicle Length 5090 mm 4590 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2880 mm 2730 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 45 L


 

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