1959 Ford Prefect vs. 1958 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1959 Ford Prefect is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 996 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Ford Prefect is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Wartburg 312 (49 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1959 Ford Prefect. (38 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1958 Wartburg 312 should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Wartburg 312 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1959 Ford Prefect. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1958 Wartburg 312 (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Ford Prefect. (72 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1958 Wartburg 312 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Ford Prefect.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Ford Prefect | 1958 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Ford | Wartburg |
| Model | Prefect | 312 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 996 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 72 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2460 mm |
