1957 Ford Prefect vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Ford Prefect. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Ford Prefect would be higher. At 1,422 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volkswagen Golf (70 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1957 Ford Prefect. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1957 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 65 kg more than 1957 Ford Prefect. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 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 1957 Ford Prefect. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Golf, 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. 1974 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1957 Ford Prefect has manual transmission. 1957 Ford Prefect will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Ford Prefect | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prefect | Golf |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 31 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 63.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 765 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2410 mm |
