1958 Ford 12 M vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 1958 Ford 12 M. (53 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1958 Ford 12 M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 959 kg more than 1958 Ford 12 M. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1958 Ford 12 M has manual transmission. 1958 Ford 12 M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Ford 12 M | 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 M | S |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1854 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3090 mm |
