1959 Ford Popular vs. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse

To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford Popular would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 1959 Ford Popular. (26 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 1378 kg more than 1959 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1959 Ford Popular 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 1959 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse, 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. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 303 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Ford Popular. (63 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Ford Popular. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse has automatic transmission and 1959 Ford Popular has manual transmission. 1959 Ford Popular will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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