1961 Ford Prefect vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 38 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), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1961 Ford Prefect. (35 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 428 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Prefect.
Compare all specifications:
1961 Ford Prefect | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Prefect | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1961 | 1999 |
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 | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 71 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 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 | 1206 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |