1996 Ford Probe vs. 2006 BMW 523
To start off, 2006 BMW 523 is newer by 10 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 57 more horse power than 1996 Ford Probe. (118 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Probe.
Because 2006 BMW 523 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 2006 BMW 523. 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, 2006 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Probe. 2006 BMW 523 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. 2006 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Probe | 2006 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Probe | 523 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
