1997 BMW 318 vs. 1989 Ford Probe
To start off, 1997 BMW 318 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1989 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW 318 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 1997 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Ford Probe (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW 318 | 1989 Ford Probe | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 318 | Probe |
Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2184 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1250 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |