1998 Ford Probe vs. 2011 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Routan 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1998 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 854 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, 2011 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Probe. 2011 Volkswagen Routan 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 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Probe | 2011 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Probe | Routan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 2084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1953 mm |
