Classic cars with history: Ford Probe

Ford has always had a great ability to sell models with a certain sporty air that, at the same time, offer easy and fun handling.

We all know the Mustang, but in reality Ford has for many years had numerous models somewhat below it to satisfy the needs of drivers looking for good performance and a good image without emptying their wallets.

This is the case of the Probe, the vehicle we are looking at today in our “Classic Cars with History” section. The beginnings of the Probe go back to the 70s, when Ford began experimenting with new shapes and concepts to create the cars of tomorrow.

One of those prototypes was, in 1979, the one called “Probe I”, a small wedge-shaped model that incorporated relatively novel technical solutions such as pop-up headlights and rear wheels covered by a semi-fairing.

After this first concept, several more followed in the following years, always based on the design of the Probe I, refining details -the Probe III conceptually showed the 5-door bodywork that the Ford Sierra would later use- and exploring the sportiest and most attractive variants of this model, which eventually reached production, a milestone reached in 1988.

Probe Mk.I

Ford turned to the help of Mazda, in which it held a small stake, to build the first generation of the Ford Probe. From it, it borrowed numerous technical components, such as the engines and the platform. The first Probe was built on the Mazda GD platform. In this first generation, the Probe had a very sharp design both at the front and at the rear.

The interior was a bit disappointing, with a bleak cabin that had just basic equipment and fittings and materials not as good as they could have been. Even so, the Probe had other attributes that made it stand out in its segment, such as its engines and its dynamic behaviour.

The Probe was sold with three engine options, the first of which was a 2.2 four-cylinder engine producing 110 CV and 176 NM. Although performance was not especially brilliant, it was sufficient to satisfy buyers who were mainly looking for a sporty image without having to spend too much money. It was offered with GL trim, with LX as an option.

The Probe was also available with a 3.0 V6 engine, identical to the one fitted to other Ford models of the era such as the Taurus or the Ranger. This engine was the only one of Ford origin, and was linked to the LX trim level.

The third and final trim level was called GT, and was exclusively associated with a 2.2 Turbo engine producing 145 CV and 260 NM. It was the most powerful, expensive and well-equipped version of the model. Among other refinements, it featured variable damping with three operating modes and a braking system with 4 discs and ABS.

The Probe Mk.I was on sale for just four years, from 1988 to 1992, when it was replaced by the Probe Mk.II.

Probe Mk.II

The Probe Mk.II was launched in August 1992 with a completely redesigned look, broader and more advanced equipment, and new driving characteristics. The engines were also updated, promising better performance and greater efficiency.

In this second generation, the Probe was offered in two trim levels, called GL and GT. The first was associated with a 2.0 four-cylinder engine producing 115 CV. Its performance was not especially brilliant but, as in the first generation, it offered a sporty image and relatively generous equipment at a very low price.

The more interesting version was the GT, which was powered by a 2.5 V6 engine of Mazda origin. With 165 CV, it cannot be described as a “tight” engine but, thanks to a well-designed gearbox ratios and a relatively light weight, it achieved more than respectable performance, which combined with a really pleasant sound quickly made it the preferred choice of those looking for a Probe.

The equipment was also more extensive, featuring, among other things, 5-spoke alloy wheels, a driver’s seat with electric lumbar adjustment, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The cabin substantially improved both its design and the materials used, being able to accommodate 4 people and their luggage with reasonable comfort for the time.

The Probe was replaced in 1997 by the Cougar, a completely new model that, however, did not enjoy the success of its predecessor.
Without a doubt, the Probe is an appealing car today for those who love “old-school” coupés and are looking for a low-cost V6 engine and a design that still stands out today.

Source | Highmotor