1956 Ford 12 M vs. 1942 Maserati 4CL
To start off, 1956 Ford 12 M is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Maserati 4CL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Maserati 4CL would be higher. At 1,490 cc (4 cylinders), 1942 Maserati 4CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1942 Maserati 4CL (218 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1956 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1942 Maserati 4CL should accelerate faster than 1956 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:
| 1956 Ford 12 M | 1942 Maserati 4CL | |
| Make | Ford | Maserati |
| Model | 12 M | 4CL |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1942 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2510 mm |
