1955 Ford 12 M vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 30 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 (113 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1955 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 M | 300 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2810 mm |
