1989 Ford Probe vs. 1976 Holden Statesman
To start off, 1989 Ford Probe is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,040 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Holden Statesman (238 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (140 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Holden Statesman weights approximately 220 kg more than 1989 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Holden Statesman 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 1976 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1976 Holden Statesman (427 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Probe. (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 1976 Holden Statesman | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Probe | Statesman |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 5040 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2900 mm |
