2006 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Ford Probe
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Probe would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1997 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1997 Ford Probe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Probe. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
2006 BMW M3 | 1997 Ford Probe | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | M3 | Probe |
Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3244 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 338 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |