1996 Ford Probe vs. 2008 Ford Focus
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 12 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1996 Ford Probe. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Probe weights approximately 113 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Ford Focus (184 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Probe. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Probe | 2008 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Probe | Focus |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 51 L |
