1989 Ford Probe vs. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1989 Ford Probe is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 310 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 1981 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 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Probe. (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Probe | 1981 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Probe | S |
Year Released | 1989 | 1981 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2184 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 154 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2950 mm |