1989 Ford Probe vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 16 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (363 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 735 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 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 3150 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Probe. (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Probe. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | S |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 363 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3150 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2910 mm |
