1961 Ford Prefect vs. 2004 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 43 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (170 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1961 Ford Prefect. (35 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 740 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Passat (225 Nm) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Prefect.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Prefect | 2004 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prefect | Passat |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 778 kg | 1518 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
