1996 Ford Probe vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1996 Ford Probe. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC weights approximately 1600 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC (351 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Probe. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Probe | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLC | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | CLC |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 62 L |
