1991 Ford Probe vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1991 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 250 kg more than 1991 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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 SLK (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Probe. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1991 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1991 Ford Probe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Probe | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | SLK |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2011 |
| 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 | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4135 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2431 mm |
