1989 Ford Probe vs. 1999 Audi S3
To start off, 1999 Audi S3 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 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Audi S3 (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi S3 weights approximately 280 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 1999 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Ford Probe. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi S3 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, 1999 Audi S3 (270 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Probe. (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 1999 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Probe | S3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
