1961 Ford Prefect vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 51 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1961 Ford Prefect. (35 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 623 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (300 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Prefect.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Prefect | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Prefect | GTI |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 778 kg | 1401 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
