1996 Ford Probe vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Probe would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1996 Ford Probe. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 340 kg more than 1996 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 C 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 C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 C (511 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 341 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Probe. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Probe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Probe | 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 511 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 62 L |
