2009 BMW 325 vs. 1989 Ford Probe

To start off, 2009 BMW 325 is newer by 20 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, 2009 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (140 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 325 weights approximately 180 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 2009 BMW 325 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 2009 BMW 325. 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, 2009 BMW 325 (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Probe. (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Probe.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 325 1989 Ford Probe
Make BMW Ford
Model 325 Probe
Year Released 2009 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 2986 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 215 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 270 Nm 217 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 89 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 80 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 12.0:1 9.3:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 209 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1495 kg 1315 kg
Vehicle Length 4590 mm 4500 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L