1998 Ford Probe vs. 1973 Ford Capri
To start off, 1998 Ford Probe is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ford Capri would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Probe (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1973 Ford Capri. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1973 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Probe weights approximately 255 kg more than 1973 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Ford Capri 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 1973 Ford Capri. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 Ford Probe (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Ford Capri. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Probe | 1973 Ford Capri | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Probe | Capri |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1303 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1340 mm |
