1998 Ford Focus vs. 1987 Ford Probe
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus 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 Ford Focus (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1987 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Probe weights approximately 135 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus.
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, 1998 Ford Focus (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 1987 Ford Probe | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Focus | Probe |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 2183 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2530 mm |
