1996 Ford Probe vs. 2009 Ford Focus
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 13 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Probe (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 75 kg more than 1996 Ford Probe.
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, 2009 Ford Focus (200 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Probe. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Probe | Focus |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| 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 | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
