1998 BMW 320 vs. 1987 Ford Probe
To start off, 1998 BMW 320 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,183 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1987 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1987 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 1998 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1998 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Probe. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1987 Ford Probe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 1987 Ford Probe | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 320 | Probe |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 2183 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2530 mm |
