1990 Ford Probe vs. 2003 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1990 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 370 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (326 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Probe. 2003 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Probe | 2003 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Probe | Passat |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 326 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 78.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |
