1989 Ford Probe vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 19 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (140 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 507 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 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Probe. (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Probe | Passat |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1822 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
