2004 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1961 Ford Prefect
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 43 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (237 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1961 Ford Prefect. (35 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 716 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Prefect.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1961 Ford Prefect | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Ford |
| Model | Spider | Prefect |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 35 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 778 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
