1987 Ford Probe vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 15 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 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (246 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1987 Ford Probe. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 740 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 298 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Probe. (262 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Probe. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Probe | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | S |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 3997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 246 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2970 mm |
