1958 Ford 12 M vs. 2004 Ford Five Hundred
To start off, 2004 Ford Five Hundred is newer by 46 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Five Hundred is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Five Hundred (200 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1958 Ford 12 M. (53 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Five Hundred should accelerate faster than 1958 Ford 12 M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Five Hundred weights approximately 757 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.
Because 1958 Ford 12 M is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1958 Ford 12 M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Five Hundred, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. 2004 Ford Five Hundred 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. 2004 Ford Five Hundred will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Ford 12 M | 2004 Ford Five Hundred | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | 12 M | Five Hundred |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1652 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2870 mm |
