2005 BMW 320 vs. 1989 Ford Probe

To start off, 2005 BMW 320 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 320 (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (140 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 320 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1989 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 BMW 320 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 2005 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2005 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Probe. (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Probe.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 320 1989 Ford Probe
Make BMW Ford
Model 320 Probe
Year Released 2005 1989
Body Type Station Wagon Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2986 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 149 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 330 Nm 217 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 89 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 80 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 9.3:1
Top Speed 216 km/hour 209 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1580 kg 1315 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4500 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L