2009 Ford Taurus vs. 1966 Ford Zephyr
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Ford Zephyr. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ford Zephyr would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6251 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (113 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1966 Ford Zephyr. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Ford Zephyr weights approximately 334 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus.
Because 1966 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 1966 Ford Zephyr. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus, 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, 2009 Ford Taurus (338 Nm @ 4501 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Ford Zephyr. (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Ford Zephyr. 2009 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1966 Ford Zephyr has manual transmission. 1966 Ford Zephyr will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus | 1966 Ford Zephyr | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taurus | Zephyr |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6251 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4501 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 68 L |
