1990 Ford Probe vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1990 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1990 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Probe. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1990 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1990 Ford Probe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Probe | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Probe | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2450 mm |
