1997 Ford Probe vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 6 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 2,604 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (174 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1997 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 600 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (425 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Probe. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Probe. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Probe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Probe | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | E |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2604 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 425 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
