1961 Ford Prefect vs. 1995 Mazda MX-3

To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 34 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1961 Ford Prefect. (35 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 281 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, 1995 Mazda MX-3, 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, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1995 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Prefect.

Compare all specifications:

1961 Ford Prefect 1995 Mazda MX-3
Make Ford Mazda
Model Prefect MX-3
Year Released 1961 1995
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 997 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 35 HP 106 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 71 Nm 134 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 778 kg 1059 kg
Vehicle Length 3810 mm 4230 mm
Vehicle Width 1550 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1650 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2220 mm 2460 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 54 L 65 L