1961 Ford Prefect vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 45 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1961 Ford Prefect. (35 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 384 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, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prefect | Golf |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 778 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
