1989 Ford Probe vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (494 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 386 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 700 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 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 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Probe. (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | S |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 494 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 3090 mm |
