1989 Ford Probe vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 15 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (140 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 160 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 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. 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, 1989 Ford Probe (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318. 2004 BMW 318 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. 2004 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Probe | 318 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
