1955 Jensen 541 vs. 1949 Mercury Roadster
To start off, 1955 Jensen 541 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Mercury Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Mercury Roadster would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1955 Jensen 541 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Jensen 541 (111 HP @ 3700 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1949 Mercury Roadster. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Jensen 541 should accelerate faster than 1949 Mercury Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Mercury Roadster weights approximately 330 kg more than 1955 Jensen 541.
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. 1949 Mercury Roadster has automatic transmission and 1955 Jensen 541 has manual transmission. 1955 Jensen 541 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1949 Mercury Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Jensen 541 | 1949 Mercury Roadster | |
| Make | Jensen | Mercury |
| Model | 541 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1949 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 3990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2960 mm |
