1988 BMW M5 vs. 1954 Ford 12 M
To start off, 1988 BMW M5 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 3,533 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M5 (311 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 1954 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1954 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:
| 1988 BMW M5 | 1954 Ford 12 M | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M5 | 12 M |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3533 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2500 mm |
