1961 Ford Zodiac vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 5,459 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 306 more horse power than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1961 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 34 kg more than 1961 Ford Zodiac. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 Ford Zodiac. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will offer significantly more control. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Ford Zodiac. (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Ford Zodiac.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Ford Zodiac | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Zodiac | CL |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2552 cc | 5459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2960 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 90 L |
