1994 Ford Probe vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Ford Probe would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1994 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1994 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 654 kg more than 1994 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Ford Probe. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1994 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1994 Ford Probe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Ford Probe | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | SL |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1236 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1300 mm |
