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Line 25: Line 25:
| image = [[Image:ford.zephyr.six.arp.750pix.jpg|250px|Ford Zodiac Mark I]]
| image = [[Image:ford.zephyr.six.arp.750pix.jpg|250px|Ford Zodiac Mark I]]
| production = 1951-1956<br />148,629 saloons and 4048 convertibles made.
| production = 1951-1956<br />148,629 saloons and 4048 convertibles made.
| engine = 2262 cc [[straight-6]] [[ohv]]
| engine = {{convert|2262|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}} [[straight-6]] [[ohv]]
| length = {{Auto in|172|0}}<ref name=Motor1951/>
| length = {{Auto in|172|0}}<ref name=Motor1951/>
| width = {{Auto in|64|0}} <ref name=Motor1951/>
| width = {{Auto in|64|0}} <ref name=Motor1951/>
Line 37: Line 37:
;Model number EOTA
;Model number EOTA


The first of the Zephyr range was a lengthened version of the Consul with a six cylinder 2262&nbsp;cc engine producing {{convert|68|bhp|abbr=on}}. Suspension was by coil springs at the front and a live axle with half elliptic springs at the rear. The car could reach just over {{convert|80|mi/h|km/h|abbr=on}} and 23&nbsp;mpg.
The first of the Zephyr range was a lengthened version of the Consul with a six cylinder {{convert|2262|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}} engine producing {{convert|68|bhp|abbr=on}}. Suspension was by coil springs at the front and a live axle with half elliptic springs at the rear. The car could reach just over {{convert|80|mi/h|km/h|abbr=on}} and 23&nbsp;mpg.


The Ford Zephyr Six was available with 4-door saloon, estate and 2-door convertible bodies. The convertible version was made by [[Carbodies]] and had a power-operated hood; the estate car was by [[Abbott Coachbuilders|Abbotts of Farnham]] and was sold as the Farnham.
The Ford Zephyr Six was available with 4-door saloon, estate and 2-door convertible bodies. The convertible version was made by [[Carbodies]] and had a power-operated hood; the estate car was by [[Abbott Coachbuilders|Abbotts of Farnham]] and was sold as the Farnham.
Line 58: Line 58:
| image = [[Image:Ford Zephyr 111 Zodiac 1956.jpg|250px|Ford Zephyr Zodiac]]
| image = [[Image:Ford Zephyr 111 Zodiac 1956.jpg|250px|Ford Zephyr Zodiac]]
| production = 1954-1956<br>22,634 made.
| production = 1954-1956<br>22,634 made.
| engine = 2262 cc [[straight-6]]
| engine = {{convert|2262|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}} [[straight-6]]
| body_style = 4-door [[sedan (car)|saloon]]<br />5-door [[station wagon|estate]] (conversion)
| body_style = 4-door [[sedan (car)|saloon]]<br />5-door [[station wagon|estate]] (conversion)
| related =
| related =
Line 82: Line 82:
| image = [[Image:MK2Zed.jpg|250px|Ford Zephyr Mark II]]
| image = [[Image:MK2Zed.jpg|250px|Ford Zephyr Mark II]]
| production = 1956-1962<br>294,506 (including the Zodiac Mark II) and 6911 Convertibles made.
| production = 1956-1962<br>294,506 (including the Zodiac Mark II) and 6911 Convertibles made.
| engine = 2553 cc [[straight-6]] [[ohv]]
| engine = {{convert|2553|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}} [[straight-6]] [[ohv]]
| length = {{Auto in|178.5|0}}
| length = {{Auto in|178.5|0}}
| width = {{Auto in|67|0}} <ref name=Motor1956/>
| width = {{Auto in|67|0}} <ref name=Motor1956/>
Line 94: Line 94:
;Model number 206E
;Model number 206E


In 1956 the Consul, Zephyr, and Zodiac were all restyled to a new family look. The 6-cylinder cars had a their engines enlarged to 2553&nbsp;cc, with power output correspondingly raised to {{convert|86|bhp|abbr=on}}<ref name=Motor1956/> . The wheelbase was increased by {{convert|3|in|mm}} to {{convert|107|in|mm}} and the width increased to {{convert|69|in|mm}}. The weight distribution and turning circle were also improved. Top speed increased to {{convert|88|mi/h|km/h|abbr=on}} and the economy was also better at {{convert|28|mpgimp|L/100 km mpgus|abbr=on}}.
In 1956 the Consul, Zephyr, and Zodiac were all restyled to a new family look. The 6-cylinder cars had a their engines enlarged to {{convert|2553|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}}, with power output correspondingly raised to {{convert|86|bhp|abbr=on}}<ref name=Motor1956/> . The wheelbase was increased by {{convert|3|in|mm}} to {{convert|107|in|mm}} and the width increased to {{convert|69|in|mm}}. The weight distribution and turning circle were also improved. Top speed increased to {{convert|88|mi/h|km/h|abbr=on}} and the economy was also better at {{convert|28|mpgimp|L/100 km mpgus|abbr=on}}.


The Zodiac and Zephyr were also offered in two body styles these being the "Highline" and "Lowline", depending on the year of manufacture — the difference being {{Auto in|1.75|0}} being cut from the height of the roof panel. The two models shared various slightly differing components, but are generally interchangeable between the two. The "Highline" variant featured a hemispherical instrument cluster, whereas the "Lowline" had a more rectangular panel. A locally-engineered version of each of these models was introduced to Australia.
The Zodiac and Zephyr were also offered in two body styles these being the "Highline" and "Lowline", depending on the year of manufacture — the difference being {{Auto in|1.75|0}} being cut from the height of the roof panel. The two models shared various slightly differing components, but are generally interchangeable between the two. The "Highline" variant featured a hemispherical instrument cluster, whereas the "Lowline" had a more rectangular panel. A locally-engineered version of each of these models was introduced to Australia.


As well as a 3-speed manual gearbox there was an optional overdrive and from 1956 (1959 in [[Australia]]) a [[Borg Warner]] DG [[automatic transmission]]. At first [[drum brakes]] were fitted all round (with a larger lining area of 147 sq in) but front discs became optional in 1960 and standard from mid 1961 (in Australia only 4-wheel drum brakes were available; some dealers fitted servo-assistance from 1961).
As well as a 3-speed manual gearbox there was an optional overdrive and from 1956 (1959 in [[Australia]]) a [[Borg Warner]] DG [[automatic transmission]]. At first [[drum brakes]] were fitted all round (with a larger lining area of {{convert|147|sqin|cm2|abbr=on|lk=on|disp=s}}) but front discs became optional in 1960 and standard from mid 1961 (in Australia only 4-wheel drum brakes were available; some dealers fitted servo-assistance from 1961).


A two-door convertible version was offered, and a pick-up and factory-built estate were sold on the Australian market. Owing to the structural weaknesses inherent in the construction of convertibles very few convertibles are known to survive: probably only 20-25 examples.
A two-door convertible version was offered, and a pick-up and factory-built estate were sold on the [[Australia|Australian]] market. Owing to the structural weaknesses inherent in the construction of convertibles very few convertibles are known to survive: probably only 20-25 examples.


<gallery>
<gallery>
Line 116: Line 116:
| image = [[Image:ford.zodiac.arp.750pix.jpg|250px|Ford Zodiac Mark II]]
| image = [[Image:ford.zodiac.arp.750pix.jpg|250px|Ford Zodiac Mark II]]
| production = 1956-1962<br>294,506 (including the Zodiac Mark II) and 6911 Convertibles made.
| production = 1956-1962<br>294,506 (including the Zodiac Mark II) and 6911 Convertibles made.
| engine = 2553 cc [[straight-6]]
| engine = {{convert|2553|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}} [[straight-6]]
| body_style = 4-door [[sedan (car)|saloon]]<br />5-door [[station wagon|estate]] (conversion)<br />2-door [[convertible]] (conversion)
| body_style = 4-door [[sedan (car)|saloon]]<br />5-door [[station wagon|estate]] (conversion)<br />2-door [[convertible]] (conversion)
| related =
| related =
Line 148: Line 148:
| image = [[Image:Ford Zephyr 211E front.jpg|250px|Ford Zephyr 4 (211E)]]
| image = [[Image:Ford Zephyr 211E front.jpg|250px|Ford Zephyr 4 (211E)]]
| production = 1962-1966<br>106,810 made.
| production = 1962-1966<br>106,810 made.
| engine = 1703 cc [[straight-4]]
| engine = {{convert|1703|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}} [[straight-4]]
| body_style = 4-door [[sedan (car)|saloon]]<br />5-door [[station wagon|estate]] ''(conversion)''
| body_style = 4-door [[sedan (car)|saloon]]<br />5-door [[station wagon|estate]] ''(conversion)''
| length = {{Auto in|180.75|0}} <br>'' (saloon & estate)''
| length = {{Auto in|180.75|0}} <br>'' (saloon & estate)''
Line 161: Line 161:
;Model 211E
;Model 211E


Rather than call the smaller-engined model the Consul as before, Ford UK called it a Zephyr 4 — the 4 to indicate that it had the four cylinder 1703&nbsp;cc engine from old Consul. A four-speed manual geabox, now with [[synchromesh]] on all ratios, was standard, with overdrive or automatic transmission available as options.
Rather than call the smaller-engined model the Consul as before, Ford UK called it a Zephyr 4 — the 4 to indicate that it had the four cylinder {{convert|1703|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}} engine from old Consul. A four-speed manual geabox, now with [[synchromesh]] on all ratios, was standard, with overdrive or automatic transmission available as options.


<gallery>
<gallery>
Line 176: Line 176:
| image = [[Image:Ford Zephyr 6 License plate 1965.jpg|250px|Ford Zephyr 6]]
| image = [[Image:Ford Zephyr 6 License plate 1965.jpg|250px|Ford Zephyr 6]]
| production = 1962-1966<br>105,256 made.
| production = 1962-1966<br>105,256 made.
| engine = 2553 cc [[straight-6]]
| engine = {{convert|2553|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}} [[straight-6]]
| body_style = 4-door [[sedan (car)|saloon]]<br />5-door [[station wagon|estate]] (conversion)
| body_style = 4-door [[sedan (car)|saloon]]<br />5-door [[station wagon|estate]] (conversion)
| related =
| related =
Line 182: Line 182:
;Model numbers 213E, 214E ([[right-hand drive]] and [[left-hand drive]])
;Model numbers 213E, 214E ([[right-hand drive]] and [[left-hand drive]])


The Zephyr / Zodiac Mark III shared some of its mechanical components, as well as the basic chassis design, with the Mark II, but had a stronger overall body construction. The exterior was designed by Canadian Roy Brown who also designed the [[Edsel]] and the [[Ford Cortina|Cortina]], though the rear of the body was inspired by a design proposal by [[Pietro Frua|Frua]]. Unlike the Zephyr 4, the Zephyr 6 had a full width grille including the headlight surrounds: overall body length and width were the same for both Zephyr III versions, however. With the same 2553&nbsp;cc displacement as before, the Mark III model had higher compression ratio resulting in some {{convert|20|hp|abbr=on}} higher output as well as a broader torque range.
The Zephyr / Zodiac Mark III shared some of its mechanical components, as well as the basic chassis design, with the Mark II, but had a stronger overall body construction. The exterior was designed by Canadian Roy Brown who also designed the [[Edsel]] and the [[Ford Cortina|Cortina]], though the rear of the body was inspired by a design proposal by [[Pietro Frua|Frua]]. Unlike the Zephyr 4, the Zephyr 6 had a full width grille including the headlight surrounds: overall body length and width were the same for both Zephyr III versions, however. With the same {{convert|2553|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}} displacement as before, the Mark III model had higher compression ratio resulting in some {{convert|20|hp|abbr=on}} higher output as well as a broader torque range.


<gallery>
<gallery>
Line 207: Line 207:
| image = [[Image:Ford Zodiac MkIII front.jpg|250px|Quad lamps for Zodiac Mark III]]
| image = [[Image:Ford Zodiac MkIII front.jpg|250px|Quad lamps for Zodiac Mark III]]
| production = 1962-1966<br>77,323 made.
| production = 1962-1966<br>77,323 made.
| engine = 2553 cc [[straight-6]]
| engine = {{convert|2553|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}} [[straight-6]]
| length = {{Auto in|182.75|0}}
| length = {{Auto in|182.75|0}}
| width = {{Auto in|69|0}}
| width = {{Auto in|69|0}}
Line 235: Line 235:
| image = [[Image:Ford Zephyr 3008E front.jpg|250px||Big Ford, small four]]
| image = [[Image:Ford Zephyr 3008E front.jpg|250px||Big Ford, small four]]
| production = 1966-1972<br>102,417 made.
| production = 1966-1972<br>102,417 made.
| engine = 1996 cc [[V4]]<br>2495 cc [[V6]]
| engine = {{convert|1996|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}} [[V4]]<br>{{convert|2495|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}} [[V6]]
| body_style = 4-door [[sedan (car)|saloon]]<br />5-door [[station wagon|estate]] (conversion)
| body_style = 4-door [[sedan (car)|saloon]]<br />5-door [[station wagon|estate]] (conversion)
| related =
| related =
Line 247: Line 247:
;Models 3008 / 3010E
;Models 3008 / 3010E


A completely new and larger body was made for the Mk IV range and the suspension was independent all round using coil springs. Disc brakes, servo-assisted, were used on all wheels. The engines were new and of V format, the 4 having a 1996&nbsp;cc V4 and the 6 a 2495&nbsp;cc V6 unit.
A completely new and larger body was made for the Mk IV range and the suspension was independent all round using coil springs. Disc brakes, servo-assisted, were used on all wheels. The engines were new and of V format, the 4 having a {{convert|1996|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}} V4 and the 6 a {{convert|2495|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}} V6 unit.


<gallery>
<gallery>
Line 266: Line 266:
| image = [[Image:Ford Zephyr 3008E side.jpg|250px|Ford Zephyr Mark IV]]
| image = [[Image:Ford Zephyr 3008E side.jpg|250px|Ford Zephyr Mark IV]]
| production = 1966-1972<br>48,846 made.
| production = 1966-1972<br>48,846 made.
| engine = 2994 cc [[V6]]
| engine = {{convert|2994|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}} [[V6]]
| body_style = 4-door [[sedan (car)|saloon]]<br />5-door [[station wagon|estate car]] (conversion)
| body_style = 4-door [[sedan (car)|saloon]]<br />5-door [[station wagon|estate car]] (conversion)
| related =
| related =
Line 272: Line 272:
;Models 3012E / 3022E
;Models 3012E / 3022E


The Zodiac Mark IV and "Executive" had four headlights and an uprated 2994&nbsp;cc V-6 engine.
The Zodiac Mark IV and "Executive" had four headlights and an uprated {{convert|2994|cc|CID|0|abbr=on}} V-6 engine.
The Zodiac featured an [[alternator (auto)|alternator]] instead of a generator on the Zephyr, an adjustable steering column, a spare wheel in the engine compartment, a heater and ''Aeroflow'' ventilation, electric window washers, 2-speed wipers, a cigar lighter, rev counter, clock, [[ammeter]] and reversing lights as standard.
The Zodiac featured an [[alternator (auto)|alternator]] instead of a generator on the Zephyr, an adjustable steering column, a spare wheel in the engine compartment, a heater and ''Aeroflow'' ventilation, electric window washers, 2-speed wipers, a cigar lighter, rev counter, clock, [[ammeter]] and reversing lights as standard.


Revision as of 02:19, 16 October 2008

Ford Zephyr
Big Six Sixties Zephyr
Overview
ManufacturerFord of Britain
Production1950–1972
Body and chassis
ClassFull-size
Chronology
PredecessorFord Pilot
SuccessorFord Consul
Ford Granada
For other Ford related cars called Zephyr, see Mercury Zephyr, Lincoln-Zephyr, and Lincoln Zephyr

The Ford Zephyr is a car manufactured by the Ford Motor Company in the United Kingdom. Between 1950 and 1962, it was sold as a more powerful saloon to complement the four cylinder Ford Consul. The Zephyr and its luxury variant, the Zephyr Zodiac which appeared in 1955, were the largest passenger cars in the British Ford range from 1950 to 1971 before being replaced by a larger Ford Consul and Granada.

History

The Mark I Ford Consul and Zephyr models were first displayed at the Earls Court motor show in 1950. Production began with the Consul on January 1 1951. The Mark I model ran until 1956. From April 1956 the Mark II Consul, Zephyr and Zodiac went on sale and were known as the Three Graces. The Mark II range was a big seller and finished its run in 1962 when from April that year the Mark III Zephyr 4, Zephyr 6 and Zodiac went on sale; the Consul name was dropped, the car's place in the Ford UK line-up being filled by the first four cylinder Ford Zephyr. While the Mark II Zephyr and Zodiacs had shared the same body (although the Consul had a shortened front and tail), the new Zodiac and Zephyrs launched in 1962 shared few body panels. With the Mark III, Ford finally sorted out problems that had beset previous models (Mark I axles and Mark II gearboxes were particular weaknesses) and the Mark III proved to be the most popular and durable of the range (it is said that possibly no other UK-based car had undergone as much pre-production testing). The model sold at a rate equal or better than the Mark II both in the UK and overseas, but was in production for a shorter period of time. During the last months of production, an up-market Executive version was added to the Mark III range, and examples of these are today highly sought after. The Mk III range was discontinued in Jan 1966 (many believe prematurely given the cars' success) and the completely new Zephyr / Zodiac Mark IV range was released in April 1966. This car was somewhat ahead of its time with a design that resembled one of the later Consul/Granada range with V-engines and independent rear suspension, but the research and development of the model was very rushed and this unfortunately reflected in the car's durability.

Although the Ford Zephyr never saw American production, cars were imported into the US and the name itself has appeared on other American Ford-related cars: the Mercury Zephyr was an upscale version of the Ford Fairmont, and the Lincoln Zephyr began its second production run in 2006 (the first was from 1936 to 1942).

Mark I

Zephyr Six (or Zephyr Mark I)

Ford Zephyr Six
Ford Zodiac Mark I
Overview
Production1951-1956
148,629 saloons and 4048 convertibles made.
Body and chassis
Body style4-door saloon
5-door estate (conversion)
2-door convertible (conversion)
RelatedFord Consul I
Powertrain
Engine2,262 cc (138 cu in) straight-6 ohv
Dimensions
WheelbaseTemplate:Auto in [1]
LengthTemplate:Auto in[2]
WidthTemplate:Auto in [2]
HeightTemplate:Auto in [2]
Curb weightTemplate:Auto lb
Model number EOTA

The first of the Zephyr range was a lengthened version of the Consul with a six cylinder 2,262 cc (138 cu in) engine producing 68 bhp (51 kW). Suspension was by coil springs at the front and a live axle with half elliptic springs at the rear. The car could reach just over 80 mph (130 km/h) and 23 mpg.

The Ford Zephyr Six was available with 4-door saloon, estate and 2-door convertible bodies. The convertible version was made by Carbodies and had a power-operated hood; the estate car was by Abbotts of Farnham and was sold as the Farnham.

The car was a success in the market place but also in competition. In 1953 a Ford Zephyr 6 driven by Maurice Gatsonides won the Monte Carlo rally, pushing a Jaguar Mark VII into second place in the process. (Gatsonides' own achievements as a rally driver have subsequently been overshadowed by the intrusive use made by state agencies of his "Gatso" speed cameras.)

A saloon tested by The Motor magazine in 1951 had a top speed of 79.8 mph (128.4 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 20.2 seconds. A fuel consumption of 23.7 miles per imperial gallon (11.9 L/100 km; 19.7 mpg‑US) was recorded. The test car cost £842 including taxes but was fitted with optional leather trim, heater and radio (the basic car cost £842). [2]

  • Ford Zephyr Mark I
    Ford Zephyr Mark I

Zephyr Zodiac (or Zodiac Mark I)

Ford Zephyr Zodiac
Ford Zephyr Zodiac
Overview
Production1954-1956
22,634 made.
Body and chassis
Body style4-door saloon
5-door estate (conversion)
Powertrain
Engine2,262 cc (138 cu in) straight-6
Model number EOTTA

The Zephyr Zodiac (or Zodiac Mark I) was an upmarket version of the Zephyr launched at the London Motor Show in autumn 1953. It had two-tone paint, leather trim, heater, windscreen washers, whitewall tyres, spot lights, etc. The engine had a higher compression ratio - 7.5:1 instead of 6.8:1 - giving an increased power output of 71 bhp (53 kW)[3]. There are no official records of Zodiac convertibles being produced but there were a few estate cars. Along with the Zephyr, the Zephyr Zodiac was one of the first cars to use MacPherson strut front suspension.

A car tested by The Motor magazine in 1955 had a top speed of 80 mph (130 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 20.2 seconds. A fuel consumption of 22.2 miles per imperial gallon (12.7 L/100 km; 18.5 mpg‑US) was recorded. The test car cost £851 including taxes. [3]

  • Ford Zodiac Mark I
    Ford Zodiac Mark I
  • Zodiac ornament
    Zodiac ornament

Mark II

Zephyr Mark II

Ford Zephyr Mark II
Ford Zephyr Mark II
Overview
Production1956-1962
294,506 (including the Zodiac Mark II) and 6911 Convertibles made.
Body and chassis
Body style4-door saloon
5-door estate (conversion)
2-door convertible (conversion)
5-door estate (factory) (Australia)
2-door pick-up (Australia)
RelatedFord Consul II
Powertrain
Engine2,553 cc (156 cu in) straight-6 ohv
Dimensions
WheelbaseTemplate:Auto in [1]
LengthTemplate:Auto in
WidthTemplate:Auto in [4]
Curb weightTemplate:Auto lb
Model number 206E

In 1956 the Consul, Zephyr, and Zodiac were all restyled to a new family look. The 6-cylinder cars had a their engines enlarged to 2,553 cc (156 cu in), with power output correspondingly raised to 86 bhp (64 kW)[4] . The wheelbase was increased by 3 inches (76 mm) to 107 inches (2,700 mm) and the width increased to 69 inches (1,800 mm). The weight distribution and turning circle were also improved. Top speed increased to 88 mph (142 km/h) and the economy was also better at 28 mpg‑imp (10 L/100 km; 23 mpg‑US).

The Zodiac and Zephyr were also offered in two body styles these being the "Highline" and "Lowline", depending on the year of manufacture — the difference being Template:Auto in being cut from the height of the roof panel. The two models shared various slightly differing components, but are generally interchangeable between the two. The "Highline" variant featured a hemispherical instrument cluster, whereas the "Lowline" had a more rectangular panel. A locally-engineered version of each of these models was introduced to Australia.

As well as a 3-speed manual gearbox there was an optional overdrive and from 1956 (1959 in Australia) a Borg Warner DG automatic transmission. At first drum brakes were fitted all round (with a larger lining area of 147 sq in (950 cm2)*) but front discs became optional in 1960 and standard from mid 1961 (in Australia only 4-wheel drum brakes were available; some dealers fitted servo-assistance from 1961).

A two-door convertible version was offered, and a pick-up and factory-built estate were sold on the Australian market. Owing to the structural weaknesses inherent in the construction of convertibles very few convertibles are known to survive: probably only 20-25 examples.

  • Zephyr Mark II "Lowline"
    Zephyr Mark II "Lowline"
  • Carbodies Convertible Zephyr
    Carbodies Convertible Zephyr

Zodiac Mark II

Ford Zodiac Mark II
Ford Zodiac Mark II
Overview
Production1956-1962
294,506 (including the Zodiac Mark II) and 6911 Convertibles made.
Body and chassis
Body style4-door saloon
5-door estate (conversion)
2-door convertible (conversion)
Powertrain
Engine2,553 cc (156 cu in) straight-6
Model number 206E

The Mark II Zodiac was slightly altered to distinguish it from the lesser variants, having more elaborate tail-end styling and at the front a different grille. The auxiliary lamps and wing mirrors were deleted from the Zodiac range but it retained two-tone paint, whitewall tyres, chrome wheel-trim embellishers and gold plated badges.

A car tested by the British magazine The Motor in 1956 had a top speed of 87.9 mph (141.5 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 17.1 seconds. A fuel consumption of 21.5 miles per imperial gallon (13.1 L/100 km; 17.9 mpg‑US) was recorded. The test car cost £968 including taxes. [4]

  • Zodiac Mark II
    Zodiac Mark II
  • Convertible Zodiac
    Convertible Zodiac

Abbott Estates

  • Zodiac Mark II 206E Abbott estate
    Zodiac Mark II 206E Abbott estate

Mark III

Zephyr 4 Mark III

Ford Zephyr 4 Mark III
Ford Zephyr 4 (211E)
Overview
Production1962-1966
106,810 made.
DesignerRoy Brown
Body and chassis
Body style4-door saloon
5-door estate (conversion)
RelatedFord Zephyr 6 Mark III
Powertrain
Engine1,703 cc (104 cu in) straight-4
Dimensions
WheelbaseTemplate:Auto in
LengthTemplate:Auto in
(saloon & estate)
WidthTemplate:Auto in
HeightTemplate:Auto in (saloon)
Template:Auto in (estate)
Curb weightTemplate:Auto lb (Saloon)
Template:Auto lb (estate)
Model 211E

Rather than call the smaller-engined model the Consul as before, Ford UK called it a Zephyr 4 — the 4 to indicate that it had the four cylinder 1,703 cc (104 cu in) engine from old Consul. A four-speed manual geabox, now with synchromesh on all ratios, was standard, with overdrive or automatic transmission available as options.

  • Zephyr 4
    Zephyr 4

Zephyr 6 Mark III

Ford Zephyr 6 Mark III
Ford Zephyr 6
Overview
Production1962-1966
105,256 made.
Body and chassis
Body style4-door saloon
5-door estate (conversion)
Powertrain
Engine2,553 cc (156 cu in) straight-6
Model numbers 213E, 214E (right-hand drive and left-hand drive)

The Zephyr / Zodiac Mark III shared some of its mechanical components, as well as the basic chassis design, with the Mark II, but had a stronger overall body construction. The exterior was designed by Canadian Roy Brown who also designed the Edsel and the Cortina, though the rear of the body was inspired by a design proposal by Frua. Unlike the Zephyr 4, the Zephyr 6 had a full width grille including the headlight surrounds: overall body length and width were the same for both Zephyr III versions, however. With the same 2,553 cc (156 cu in) displacement as before, the Mark III model had higher compression ratio resulting in some 20 hp (15 kW) higher output as well as a broader torque range.

  • Ford Zephyr 6
    Ford Zephyr 6

Only saloons and estate cars were made, the estate being a conversion by Abbotts of Farnham.

Abbott Estates

Zodiac Mark III

Ford Zodiac Mark III
Quad lamps for Zodiac Mark III
Overview
Production1962-1966
77,323 made.
Body and chassis
Body style4-door saloon
5-door estate (conversion)
Powertrain
Engine2,553 cc (156 cu in) straight-6
Dimensions
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Model numbers 213E, 214E

The Zodiac was an upmarket version of the Zephyr 6, but differed considerably from that model by the limousine-type rear doors, sharper roofline and tail, unique grille (four headlights instead of two), exclusive bumper bars, plusher seating, and up-market upholstery, dashboard and interior fittings. The front doors and bonnet panels were shared with the Zephyr 6. The Executive version had extra luxury fittings again.

  • Ford Zodiac Mark III (213E)
    Ford Zodiac Mark III (213E)

Mark IV

Zephyr Mark IV

Ford Zephyr Mark IV
Big Ford, small four
Overview
Production1966-1972
102,417 made.
Body and chassis
Body style4-door saloon
5-door estate (conversion)
Powertrain
Engine1,996 cc (122 cu in) V4
2,495 cc (152 cu in) V6
Dimensions
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Models 3008 / 3010E

A completely new and larger body was made for the Mk IV range and the suspension was independent all round using coil springs. Disc brakes, servo-assisted, were used on all wheels. The engines were new and of V format, the 4 having a 1,996 cc (122 cu in) V4 and the 6 a 2,495 cc (152 cu in) V6 unit.

  • Ford Zephyr 4 Mark IV
    Ford Zephyr 4 Mark IV
  • Ford Zephyr 6 Mark IV: the deluxe version gained a dummy grille between the headlights
    Ford Zephyr 6 Mark IV: the deluxe version gained a dummy grille between the headlights

Zodiac and Executive Mark IV

Ford Zodiac Mark IV
Ford Zephyr Mark IV
Overview
Production1966-1972
48,846 made.
Body and chassis
Body style4-door saloon
5-door estate car (conversion)
Powertrain
Engine2,994 cc (183 cu in) V6
Models 3012E / 3022E

The Zodiac Mark IV and "Executive" had four headlights and an uprated 2,994 cc (183 cu in) V-6 engine. The Zodiac featured an alternator instead of a generator on the Zephyr, an adjustable steering column, a spare wheel in the engine compartment, a heater and Aeroflow ventilation, electric window washers, 2-speed wipers, a cigar lighter, rev counter, clock, ammeter and reversing lights as standard.

The "Executive" was an upmarket version and had the highest specification offered by Ford to UK customers in the 1960s. Automatic transmission, power steering and a sunroof were standard equipment. Other standard features included; fully reclining front seats, Walnut fascia, full instrumentation, carpeting throughout, reversing lights, fog lamps, front inertia reel safety belts and a radio. The Executive was distinguishable from other models by exterior trim and name badges on the front and rear.

References

  • Allen M. Consul, Zephyr, Zodiac, Executive/Fords Mark 1 to 4. Motor Racing Publications Ltd, Croydon, 2nd Ed, 1990. ISBN 0-947981-42-X
  1. ^ a b Culshaw (1974). Complete Catalogue of British Cars. London: Macmillan. ISBN 0-333-16689-2. {{cite book}}: Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
  2. ^ a b c d e "The Ford Zephyr Six Saloon". The Motor. October 3 1951. {{cite journal}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  3. ^ a b "The Ford Zephyr Zodiac". The Motor. June 8 1955. {{cite journal}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  4. ^ a b c d "The Ford Zodiac Mk.II". The Motor. May 2 1956. {{cite journal}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  5. ^ Cardew, Basil (1966). Daily Express Review of the 1966 Motor Show. London: Beaverbrook Newspapers Ltd. {{cite book}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter: |coauthors= (help)
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