1948 Ford Prefect vs. 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196
To start off, 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Ford Prefect. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Ford Prefect would be higher. At 2,497 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 (277 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1948 Ford Prefect. (31 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 should accelerate faster than 1948 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Ford Prefect weights approximately 117 kg more than 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Ford Prefect | 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Prefect | W 196 |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1955 |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 31 HP | 277 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 837 kg | 720 kg |
