1998 Ford Probe vs. 1973 Subaru R-2
To start off, 1998 Ford Probe is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Subaru R-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Subaru R-2 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 88 more horse power than 1973 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1973 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Probe weights approximately 770 kg more than 1973 Subaru R-2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Subaru R-2 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 Subaru R-2. 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 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Subaru R-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Probe | 1973 Subaru R-2 | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Probe | R-2 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 356 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 27 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 40 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1350 mm |
