2006 Acura TL vs. 1971 Ford Zephyr

To start off, 2006 Acura TL is newer by 35 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 3,212 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Acura TL (258 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (81 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Acura TL weights approximately 325 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, 2006 Acura TL, 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, 2006 Acura TL (316 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2006 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Zephyr.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Acura TL 1971 Ford Zephyr
Make Acura Ford
Model TL Zephyr
Year Released 2006 1971
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3212 cc 1996 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 258 HP 81 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 4750 RPM
Torque 316 Nm 153 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 2750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 93.7 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 72.4 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1575 kg 1250 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4710 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2750 mm 2930 mm