1996 Ford Probe vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 8 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1996 Ford Probe. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 635 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Probe. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Probe | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | CL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| 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 | 118 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 99 L |
