1998 BMW 320 vs. 1996 Ford Probe
To start off, 1998 BMW 320 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1996 Ford Probe. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1996 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, 1996 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Probe. 1998 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1996 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 | 1996 Ford Probe | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 320 | Probe |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 92 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 | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 58 L |
