1998 Ford Probe vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1998 Ford Probe. (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 250 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.
Because 2012 BMW Z4 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 2012 BMW Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (270 Nm @ 1250 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Probe. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Probe | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Probe | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1290 mm |
