1961 Ford Prefect vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 50 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1961 Ford Prefect. (35 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 532 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Prefect.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Prefect | 2011 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Prefect | B |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 155 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 | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 54 L |
