1998 Ford Probe vs. 1984 Ford Fairlane

To start off, 1998 Ford Probe is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Ford Fairlane (131 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1998 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 400 kg more than 1998 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1984 Ford Fairlane 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 1984 Ford Fairlane. 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, 1984 Ford Fairlane (305 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1984 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Probe. 1984 Ford Fairlane has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Probe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Ford Fairlane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Ford Probe 1984 Ford Fairlane
Make Ford Ford
Model Probe Fairlane
Year Released 1998 1984
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1991 cc 4093 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 115 HP 131 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 170 Nm 305 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1230 kg 1630 kg
Vehicle Length 4590 mm 5020 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1400 mm