2001 Citroen C3 vs. 1959 Ford Prefect
To start off, 2001 Citroen C3 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford Prefect. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford Prefect would be higher. At 1,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Ford Prefect is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Citroen C3 (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1959 Ford Prefect. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Citroen C3 weights approximately 213 kg more than 1959 Ford Prefect. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Ford Prefect. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Citroen C3, 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, 2001 Citroen C3 (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2150 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Ford Prefect.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Citroen C3 | 1959 Ford Prefect | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | C3 | Prefect |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1124 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2150 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 63.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 92.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 157 km/hour | 110 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 978 kg | 765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 54 L |
