1997 Ford Probe vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 is newer by 15 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (240 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1997 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 635 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 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Probe. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 BMW X3 (299 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Probe. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Probe. 2012 BMW X3 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. 2012 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Probe | 2012 BMW X3 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Probe | X3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1675 mm |
