1997 BMW M3 vs. 1995 Ford Probe
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Ford Probe would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1995 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1995 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1995 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Ford Probe. (172 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1995 Ford Probe | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Probe |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1320 mm |
