1961 Ford Prefect vs. 2006 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Polo (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1961 Ford Prefect. (35 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Polo 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 Polo, 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 Polo (140 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Polo 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 Polo
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Prefect Polo
Year Released 1961 2006
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 997 cc 1596 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 35 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 71 Nm 140 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 3300 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 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 778 kg 1162 kg
Vehicle Length 3810 mm 3920 mm
Vehicle Width 1550 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1650 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2220 mm 2470 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 54 L 45 L