1991 Ford Probe vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 21 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 292 more horse power than 1991 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 730 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 2012 BMW 550 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 2012 BMW 550. 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, 2012 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 430 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Probe | 2012 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Probe | 550 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2968 mm |
