1998 Ford Probe vs. 2009 Ford Focus
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 11 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 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (296 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1998 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 50 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Ford Focus (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Probe. 2009 Ford Focus 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. 2009 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Probe | 2009 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Probe | Focus |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
