1997 Ford Probe vs. 2009 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2009 Lotus Exige is newer by 12 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, 2009 Lotus Exige (257 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1997 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Probe.
Because 2009 Lotus Exige 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 2009 Lotus Exige. 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, 2009 Lotus Exige (236 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Probe. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Probe | 2009 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Probe | Exige |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1170 mm |
