1996 Ford Probe vs. 2012 Honda Civic

To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 16 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, 2012 Honda Civic (138 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1996 Ford Probe. (118 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster 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, 2012 Honda Civic (174 Nm) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Probe. (170 Nm). This means 2012 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Probe. 2012 Honda Civic 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. 2012 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Ford Probe 2012 Honda Civic
Make Ford Honda
Model Probe Civic
Year Released 1996 2012
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1991 cc 1799 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 118 HP 138 HP
Torque 170 Nm 174 Nm
Engine Bore Size 83 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92 mm 87.3 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1785 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1460 mm