1990 Ford Probe vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 18 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1990 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 140 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Probe. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Probe | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | SLK |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2440 mm |
