1955 Ford 12 M vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 57 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 1955 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Ford 12 M | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 M | SL |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2560 mm |
