1966 Ford 12 M vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 440 more horse power than 1966 Ford 12 M. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1966 Ford 12 M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1150 kg more than 1966 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. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 695 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Ford 12 M. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Ford 12 M.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford 12 M | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 12 M | SL |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1496 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 2025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 80 L |
