1998 Ford Probe vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1998 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Probe.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Probe. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Probe | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1298 mm |
