1998 Ford Probe vs. 2008 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2008 Ford Ranger is newer by 10 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 2,970 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Ranger (148 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Probe weights approximately 123 kg more than 2008 Ford Ranger.
Because 2008 Ford Ranger 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 2008 Ford Ranger. 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, 2008 Ford Ranger (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Probe | 2008 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Probe | Ranger |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1107 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1690 mm |
