1998 Ford Probe vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 14 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1998 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 103 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Probe | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Probe | Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1486 mm |