1987 Ford Probe vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 21 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 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1987 Ford Probe. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 100 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 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Probe. (262 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Probe. 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Probe | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Probe | Passat |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2720 mm |
