1987 BMW 320 vs. 1998 Ford Probe
To start off, 1998 Ford Probe is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 BMW 320 (189 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1998 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Probe weights approximately 12 kg more than 1987 BMW 320.
Because 1987 BMW 320 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 1987 BMW 320. 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, 1987 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1987 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 320 | 1998 Ford Probe | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 320 | Probe |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1218 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1320 mm |
