1955 Ford 12 M vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 48 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 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1955 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1955 Ford 12 M has manual transmission. 1955 Ford 12 M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Ford 12 M | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 M | S |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 3722 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3090 mm |
