1966 Ford GT 40 vs. 1951 Mercury Roadster
To start off, 1966 Ford GT 40 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Mercury Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Mercury Roadster would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 Ford GT 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Ford GT 40 (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 1951 Mercury Roadster. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Ford GT 40 should accelerate faster than 1951 Mercury Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Mercury Roadster weights approximately 414 kg more than 1966 Ford GT 40.
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. 1951 Mercury Roadster has automatic transmission and 1966 Ford GT 40 has manual transmission. 1966 Ford GT 40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1951 Mercury Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Ford GT 40 | 1951 Mercury Roadster | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | GT 40 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1951 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 3990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 5260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2960 mm |
