1981 BMW 525 vs. 1959 Ford 12 M
To start off, 1981 BMW 525 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 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 525 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1959 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1959 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 525 | 1959 Ford 12 M | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 525 | 12 M |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1620 mm |
