1961 Ford Prefect vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 37 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1961 Ford Prefect. (35 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 317 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Prefect. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1961 Ford Prefect has manual transmission. 1961 Ford Prefect will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1961 Ford Prefect | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Prefect | A |
Year Released | 1961 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 997 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 35 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 71 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 778 kg | 1095 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2430 mm |