1959 Ford Prefect vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford Prefect. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford Prefect would be higher. At 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (52 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1959 Ford Prefect. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 60 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.
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:
| 1959 Ford Prefect | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prefect | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 996 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 42 L |
