1990 Ford Probe vs. 2006 BMW 318
To start off, 2006 BMW 318 is newer by 16 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 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1990 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 318 weights approximately 145 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 2006 BMW 318 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 2006 BMW 318. 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, 2006 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Probe. 2006 BMW 318 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. 2006 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Probe | 2006 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Probe | 318 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2730 mm |
