[en] We discuss and compare two brands of nuclear mean field models, the Skyrme-Hartree-Fock scheme (SHF) and the relativistic mean field model (RMF). Similarities and differences are worked out on a formal basis and with respect to the models performance in describing nuclear data. The bulk observables of stable nuclei are all described very well. Differences come up when extrapolating to exotic nuclei. The typically larger asymmetry energy in RMF leads to a larger neutron skin. Superheavy nuclei are found to be very sensitive on the single particle levels particularly on the spin orbit splitting. Ground state correlations from collective surface vibrations can have a significant effect on difference observables, as two-nucleon separation energy and two-nucleon shell gap. (author)