1997 Ford Probe vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1997 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1997 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Probe. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Probe | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
Make | Ford | BMW |
Model | Probe | Z3 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2990 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 229 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 172 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 89.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1405 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1310 mm |