1989 Ford Probe vs. 2009 Kia Sportage

To start off, 2009 Kia Sportage is newer by 20 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, 2009 Kia Sportage (172 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (140 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Sportage weights approximately 355 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 2009 Kia Sportage 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, 2009 Kia Sportage 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, 2009 Kia Sportage (246 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Probe. (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Probe.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Ford Probe 2009 Kia Sportage
Make Ford Kia
Model Probe Sportage
Year Released 1989 2009
Body Type Coupe SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2986 cc 2656 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 140 HP 172 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 217 Nm 246 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.3:1 10.1:1
Drive Type Front 4WD
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1315 kg 1670 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4360 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1700 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2640 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 65 L