1997 Ford Probe vs. 1979 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1997 Ford Probe is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Probe (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1979 Ford Mustang. (90 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Probe weights approximately 10 kg more than 1979 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Ford Mustang 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 1979 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1979 Ford Mustang (209 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Probe. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Probe | 1979 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Probe | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3273 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1320 mm |
