1987 Ford Probe vs. 1997 Honda S-MX
To start off, 1997 Honda S-MX is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,183 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda S-MX (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1987 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda S-MX should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda S-MX weights approximately 80 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 1997 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 Ford Probe. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Honda S-MX will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Honda S-MX (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Honda S-MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Probe. 1997 Honda S-MX 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. 1997 Honda S-MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Probe | 1997 Honda S-MX | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Probe | S-MX |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2183 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2510 mm |
