1954 Ford Prefect vs. 1958 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1958 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Ford Prefect. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Ford Prefect would be higher. At 1,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1958 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Volkswagen Beetle (38 HP @ 3900 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1954 Ford Prefect. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1958 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1954 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Ford Prefect weights approximately 25 kg more than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1954 Ford Prefect 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 1954 Ford Prefect. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1958 Volkswagen Beetle, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Ford Prefect | 1958 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prefect | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1170 cc | 1190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 31 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 765 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1560 mm |
