1995 BMW M3 vs. 1955 Ford 12 M
To start off, 1995 BMW M3 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 2,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW M3 (282 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 245 more horse power than 1955 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1955 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:
| 1995 BMW M3 | 1955 Ford 12 M | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | 12 M |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2988 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2500 mm |
