1961 Ford Prefect vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 44 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1961 Ford Prefect. (35 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 422 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, 2005 Opel Astra, 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, 2005 Opel Astra (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Prefect.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Prefect | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Prefect | Astra |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 778 kg | 1200 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 52 L |
