1954 Ford 12 M vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 5,982 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 568 more horse power than 1954 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1954 Ford 12 M.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1954 Ford 12 M has manual transmission. 1954 Ford 12 M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Ford 12 M | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 M | SL |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 5982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 605 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2570 mm |
