1983 Ferrari 308 vs. 1997 Ford Probe

To start off, 1997 Ford Probe is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ferrari 308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ferrari 308 would be higher. At 2,925 cc (8 cylinders), 1983 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Ferrari 308 (230 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1997 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ferrari 308 weights approximately 276 kg more than 1997 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1983 Ferrari 308 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 1983 Ferrari 308. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1983 Ferrari 308 (255 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Probe. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1983 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Probe.

Compare all specifications:

1983 Ferrari 308 1997 Ford Probe
Make Ferrari Ford
Model 308 Probe
Year Released 1983 1997
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 2925 cc 1991 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 230 HP 115 HP
Engine RPM 7000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 255 Nm 172 Nm
Torque RPM 5500 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 71 mm 92 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.6:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1506 kg 1230 kg
Vehicle Length 4430 mm 4590 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1130 mm 1320 mm