1998 Ford Probe vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1998 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 592 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 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Probe | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Probe | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1822 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1500 mm |
