1955 Ford Prefect vs. 1961 Volkswagen 1500
To start off, 1961 Volkswagen 1500 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Ford Prefect. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Ford Prefect would be higher. At 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Volkswagen 1500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Volkswagen 1500 (52 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1955 Ford Prefect. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Volkswagen 1500 should accelerate faster than 1955 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Volkswagen 1500 weights approximately 171 kg more than 1955 Ford Prefect. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 1955 Ford Prefect | 1961 Volkswagen 1500 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prefect | 1500 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 31 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 765 kg | 936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2430 mm |
