1987 Ford Probe vs. 1970 Rover 3.5
To start off, 1987 Ford Probe is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Rover 3.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Rover 3.5 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Rover 3.5 (149 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1987 Ford Probe. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Rover 3.5 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Rover 3.5 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1987 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Rover 3.5 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 1970 Rover 3.5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1970 Rover 3.5 (276 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Probe. (262 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1970 Rover 3.5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Probe. 1970 Rover 3.5 has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1987 Ford Probe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Rover 3.5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Probe | 1970 Rover 3.5 | |
| Make | Ford | Rover |
| Model | Probe | 3.5 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 3532 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 276 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2820 mm |
