1958 Ford 12 M vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 51 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (661 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 624 more horse power than 1958 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1958 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Ford 12 M | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 M | SL |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 661 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1830 mm |
