1961 Ford Prefect vs. 1992 Mazda 323
To start off, 1992 Mazda 323 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Prefect. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Prefect would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mazda 323 (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1961 Ford Prefect. (35 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mazda 323 weights approximately 152 kg more than 1961 Ford Prefect. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Ford Prefect. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 323, 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, 1992 Mazda 323 (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1992 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Prefect.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Prefect | 1992 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Prefect | 323 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 778 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 50 L |
