1996 Ford Probe vs. 2010 BMW M3
To start off, 2010 BMW M3 is newer by 14 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 4,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 296 more horse power than 1996 Ford Probe. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW M3 weights approximately 650 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 2010 BMW M3 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 2010 BMW M3. 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, 2010 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Probe | 2010 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Probe | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 63 L |
