1959 Ford 12 M vs. 1981 Lancia Gamma
To start off, 1981 Lancia Gamma is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lancia Gamma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lancia Gamma (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1959 Ford 12 M. (53 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Gamma should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford 12 M.
Because 1959 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 1959 Ford 12 M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Gamma, 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. 1981 Lancia Gamma has automatic transmission and 1959 Ford 12 M has manual transmission. 1959 Ford 12 M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Lancia Gamma will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Ford 12 M | 1981 Lancia Gamma | |
| Make | Ford | Lancia |
| Model | 12 M | Gamma |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1497 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1430 mm |
