1961 Ford Prefect vs. 2009 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (101 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1961 Ford Prefect. (35 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 469 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 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, 2009 Volkswagen Polo (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prefect | Polo |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1800 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 778 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4200 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 |
