1998 Ford Probe vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Probe would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK (169 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1998 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 320 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK (250 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Probe | 2002 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | CLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
