2009 Toyota Prius vs. 1962 Toyota Publica
To start off, 2009 Toyota Prius is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Toyota Publica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Toyota Publica would be higher. At 1,496 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Prius is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Prius (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1962 Toyota Publica. (29 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1962 Toyota Publica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Prius weights approximately 750 kg more than 1962 Toyota Publica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Toyota Publica 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 1962 Toyota Publica. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Prius, 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 Toyota Prius (82 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Toyota Publica. (54 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Prius will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Toyota Publica.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota Prius | 1962 Toyota Publica | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | Prius | Publica |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1496 cc | 697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 82 Nm | 54 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 13.0:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 75 L |
