2006 Ford S-Max vs. 1971 Ford Zephyr
To start off, 2006 Ford S-Max 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford S-Max (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (81 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford S-Max weights approximately 493 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 Ford S-Max, 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 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Zephyr. (153 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2006 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Zephyr.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford S-Max | 1971 Ford Zephyr | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | S-Max | Zephyr |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2930 mm |
