1961 Ford Prefect vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 42 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), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1961 Ford Prefect. (35 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 382 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (156 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Prefect.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Prefect | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prefect | Golf |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| 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 | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 778 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
