1996 Ford Probe vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC is newer by 15 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1996 Ford Probe. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC weights approximately 235 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 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC (250 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Probe | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLC | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | CLC |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 62 L |
