1998 Ford Probe vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 395 more horse power than 1998 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 955 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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 Mercedes-Benz CL (831 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 661 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Probe. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Probe | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | CL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 831 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 87 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 2185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
