1998 Ford Probe vs. 2006 BMW 525
To start off, 2006 BMW 525 is newer by 8 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1998 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Probe.
Because 2006 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Probe. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW 525 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 BMW 525 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Probe. 2006 BMW 525 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. 2006 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Probe | 2006 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Probe | 525 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
