1981 Ferrari 208 vs. 1998 Ford Probe
To start off, 1998 Ford Probe is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ferrari 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ferrari 208 would be higher. Both 1981 Ferrari 208 and 1998 Ford Probe are equipped with a 1,991 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Ferrari 208 (153 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1998 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Ferrari 208 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ferrari 208 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1998 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ferrari 208 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 Ferrari 208. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Probe, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, both vehicles can yield 170 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ferrari 208 | 1998 Ford Probe | |
| Make | Ferrari | Ford |
| Model | 208 | Probe |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1305 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1320 mm |
