1989 Ford Probe vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (140 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Probe weights approximately 50 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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 SLK (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Probe. (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Probe. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | SLK |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
