1989 Ford Probe vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 22 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 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (136 HP @ 2800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (360 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Probe. (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Probe. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | C |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2760 mm |
