1997 Ford Probe vs. 2012 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2012 Ford Taurus 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1997 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Taurus weights approximately 591 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Ford Taurus (337 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Probe. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Probe. 2012 Ford Taurus 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 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Probe | 2012 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Probe | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1821 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5154 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1542 mm |
