1961 Ford Prefect vs. 2008 Opel Astra
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 47 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 1,909 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (99 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1961 Ford Prefect. (35 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 657 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, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Astra (260 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Prefect | Astra |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1909 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 52 L |
