Canon FD 55mm f/1.2 S.S.C. vs Minolta MC Rokkor-PG 58mm f/1.2

What actually differs

• Both open to f/1.2, so neither has a speed advantage.
• The Canon FD 55mm f/1.2 S.S.C. is cheaper. Typical used value is $320 against $480, a gap of $160 (roughly 1.5x). Ranges: $180 to $600 versus $300 to $850.
• The Minolta MC Rokkor-PG 58mm f/1.2 is longer at 58mm against 55mm, a 3mm difference that tightens framing slightly and increases background magnification.
• The Minolta MC Rokkor-PG 58mm f/1.2 is the older design; production began around 1966 against 1973 for the Canon FD 55mm f/1.2 S.S.C. (1966-1973 versus 1973-1979).
• They use different mounts, Canon FD and Minolta SR (MC), so each needs its own adapter. Both reach infinity on mirrorless bodies with a plain mechanical adapter.
• Both use 7 elements in 5 groups.

Which one to buy

On the catalog data the Canon FD 55mm f/1.2 S.S.C. wins on the $160 lower typical price, and the Minolta MC Rokkor-PG 58mm f/1.2 gives up nothing measurable in return except its own rendering, described below. Condition and variant matter more than the spec sheet at these prices.

Minimum focus distance, weight, and measured sharpness are not in the catalog, so this comparison does not claim anything about them.