1989 Ford Probe vs. 1999 Acura TL
To start off, 1999 Acura TL is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Probe would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Acura TL (226 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Acura TL weights approximately 325 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.
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, 1999 Acura TL (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Probe. (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Probe. 1999 Acura TL has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Probe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 1999 Acura TL | |
| Make | Ford | Acura |
| Model | Probe | TL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 226 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2750 mm |
