1985 BMW 316 vs. 1989 Ford Probe
To start off, 1989 Ford Probe is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Probe (140 HP) has 54 more horse power than 1985 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Probe weights approximately 245 kg more than 1985 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 BMW 316 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 1985 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Ford Probe (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 316 | 1989 Ford Probe | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 316 | Probe |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
