1987 Ford Probe vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 11 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1987 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 250 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Probe | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | CLK |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2183 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2670 mm |
