1997 Ford Probe vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1997 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 294 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Probe. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Probe. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Probe | 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1524 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1730 mm |
