2001 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Ford Probe
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Probe would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1996 Ford Probe. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1996 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW M3 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 2001 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Probe. (170 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Probe. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Probe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M3 | 1996 Ford Probe | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | M3 | Probe |
Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 502 Nm | 170 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 58 L |