1955 Ford 12 M vs. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 2,193 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE (118 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1955 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE should accelerate faster than 1955 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Ford 12 M | 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 M | SE |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 2193 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2760 mm |
