USSR vs Soviet Union — 1971 vs 1960
| 968M Zaporozhets Standard | 965 Zaporozhets Standard | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 42 hp | 23 hp |
| Torque | 57 lb-ft | 32 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,197 cc | 746 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 36.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 73 mph | 50 mph |
| Weight | 1,852 lbs | 1,466 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,160 mm | 2,023 mm |
| Length | 3,730 mm | 3,330 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 322,166 |
| Value (Excellent) | $10,000 | $12,000 |
| Collectibility | 4/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1971 ZAZ 968M Zaporozhets Standard brings more power, higher top speed to the table, and the 1960 ZAZ 965 Zaporozhets Standard answers with lighter weight, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
ZAZ has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1971 ZAZ 968M Zaporozhets Standard with the 1960 ZAZ 965 Zaporozhets Standard highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1971 ZAZ 968M Zaporozhets Standard producing 42 hp and the 1960 ZAZ 965 Zaporozhets Standard delivering 23 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the ZAZ 968M Zaporozhets uses a V4 OHV Air-cooled displacing 1,197 cc, while the ZAZ 965 Zaporozhets relies on a V4 Air-Cooled OHV with 746 cc. The 1971 ZAZ 968M Zaporozhets Standard claims a higher top speed at 73 mph compared to 50 mph. The ZAZ 965 Zaporozhets carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 386 lbs lighter. Both trade at comparable values on the collector market, making the choice between them largely one of personal preference.