1996 Ford Probe vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2,986 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1996 Ford Probe. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 470 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E. 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 Mercedes-Benz E (540 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 368 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Probe. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Probe. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Probe | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
