1987 Ford Probe vs. 2011 Volvo V50
To start off, 2011 Volvo V50 is newer by 24 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1987 Ford Probe. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo V50 weights approximately 348 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Probe. (262 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Probe. 2011 Volvo V50 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. 2011 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Ford Probe | 2011 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Probe | V50 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4521 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1499 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2639 mm |
