1961 Ford Prefect vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 48 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 1,347 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1961 Ford Prefect. (35 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 377 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, 2009 Mazda 3, 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Prefect.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Prefect | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Prefect | 3 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1347 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
