2005 Audi A3 vs. 1971 Ford Zephyr
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 34 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, 2005 Audi A3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (81 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 65 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, 2005 Audi A3, 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, 2005 Audi A3 (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1971 Ford Zephyr | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | A3 | Zephyr |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2930 mm |
