The Ford Probe: its history, models, options, and features

[@aldoparise1224]

The second generation Ford Probe is gorgeous.

[@B9M3]

I bought a new Probe GT 5-speed in 94 and it was my daily driver for 16 years. I didnt care for Gen 1, but Gen 2 was strikingly beautiful in GT trim. I wouldn't call it bullet proof but over all it was reliable. I don't get all the snickering over the name. Ford had a series of experimental and concept cars in the 80s and 90s called Probes. They were all very cool in their own way. Some of them even looked like futuristic space probes. So when it became clear that it wouldn't be called Mustang, Ford just applied the nomenclature of the concept and experimental cars. I always liked the name -- sounds very futuristic and high tech..

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thanks for sharing your experience with the car. I understand probe was the name of a concept car in the in the early 80's it also is a double entendre. When given a choice of all the possible names a car can be given one should not use the double entendre regardless of how juvenile the other interpretation may be. If it's only 10% of potential buyers that will think along those lines that's way too many.

[@marquisbrunson]

I had a 94 ford probe. I loved it.

[@putzmeisterdeluxe1204]

I live in sweden and my girlfriend has a 95 Probe gt with the 5-speed manual, she bought it in 2011 and only drives it during the summer. It's her first car. Everything works, no rust and it handles great. 🙂

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thanks for sharing! I don't think I will hear many complaints about these cars.

[@ford_probe_garage_studio]

They are awesome handling vehicles 👍👍👍

[@drplando14]

In college back in 99 I bought a 96 ford probe w manual transmission (4c). Had it until 2014 and put 250k miles and never had any issues, just maintenance. Loved it

[@alitheretrokid]

I bought a 95 probe with the 4 a year ago with 110k miles and have put 16k miles on it in the last year. I changed all the gaskets, suspension bushings, exhaust, timing belt, and water pump. It has never even skipped a beat on me. Drove it 12 hours from michigan to alabama and got 39mpg. I plan to drive this thing to 300k miles and beyond.

[@drplando14]

@ I was surprised by the mpg too. I knew it was up in the 30s. I’m sure it will last you up to 300k, great car

[@jwc3104]

2nd gen probe in White and blue, looks totally rad, it still looks good in 2024.

[@aaronbrandes7456]

My grandmother worked for Ford and bought the first gen Probe GT and me being a teenager at the time was blown away by its performance!

[@DanTheMailman330]

I didn't realize they were comparable to an automatic 5.0 mustang in the quarter mile!

[@michaelmartin2276]

My oldest sister bought a Probe GT. It was fun and fast and very reliable. She drove it for 12 years.

[@patagualianmostly7437]

@@DanTheMailman330 Pretty sure it handled a lot better too. I don't get the obsession with V8's...Much heavier......

[@doerich01]

My first brand new car, a 1990 Ford Probe. Still have it 34 years later and still drive it occasionally. LOVE IT!

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

@@doerich01 That’s awesome! Thanks for sharing!

[@berts4877]

My first new car was a red '93 Probe GT with manual transmission. It was a blast to drive on twisty roads and the V6 was smooth. One time when my parents had just moved to Arkansas after retiring, I drove my Probe GT and my brother followed in my dad's '94 Lincoln Mark VIII which we were bringing to him. When we got to the twisty roads, I was able to pull away from my brother on sections with a lot of turns, but if there was a straight section he caught back up. It was like a 100 mile roller coaster.

[@2H2521]

Yet again, excellent information & history on another Ford vehicle! This channel is nothing of absolute super. The second generation Probe is one of the coolest & most futuristic looking cars of the 90’s, it was so ahead of its time with its styling. I think it’s one of the best looking cars Ford ever had. Cool SVO in the background too.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thank you for the kind words and I'm glad you enjoyed the video!

[@komradkolonel]

I didn't write a letter but I was one of those that thought a FWD Mustang with a turbo four was an abomination. The bosses at Ford were wise to listen up and not make the Probe the new Mustang. Ford did need the Probe not only because they had invested so much money into it but also because they really didn't have a car to compete with the Toyota Celica, Dodge Daytona, or Mitsubishi Eclipse from that time. The Probe fit into that class perfectly.

[@Reaching2Sky]

I'm a proud owner of a 1994 Probe GT. Getting spare parts here at México City is an authentic pain but it pays off when people stares at your car and... It's even better when you love your car that much that you have to turn your head at it when you park it.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thanks for your comment and for watching!

[@skip741x3]

Brother, I cant believe you said that! I have a white 94 gt, owned since new, my only car for last 30 yrs... I know that car inside and out..yeah getting parts is a real challenge, even scrapyards are empty of probes... I have to search ebay, amazon and use 626 and mx6 parts at times... I am the same in regards to ur last comment, I Still turn around and take a 2nd look at mine whenever i park it, even after 30 yrs, now thats a good sign!

[@Aggiedave93]

I bought a black ‘93 Probe GT 5-sp right out of college, in between my ‘85 Mustang GT and ‘94 Cobra. That car was absoluteiy beautiful back in the day and was a great, smooth, modern ride and drive. That car and its MX-6 twin were ahead of their time.

[@Ryan96se]

I enjoy my Classic Probe. I get thumbs up and drive it on the weekends. It's made it to this point, so it now lives a life of luxury. My wife and I go for short pleasure driving on the weekends as it now has antique tags on it.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

@@Ryan96se Outstanding! Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@damyanpopov1341]

I have owned a 94 Probe GT for over 3 years. Fixed a lot of things on it and it is now looking great inside, outside and under the hood. Great car and I love it! Great handling car with enough power to have fun when you really get on it. I replaced the entire exhaust system on it and it tends to turn heads wherever I go. Magnaflow for the win :) I have been approached more than once at the gas station with people asking what the car is or commenting how they haven't seen a Probe in ages! Currently restoring a 95 Probe GT with my father we picked up a few months ago. It wasn't running when we got it, but it is now! Ford Probe Facebook groups are a great community and resource. We are always helping each other out and discussing Probe stuff!

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thank you for sharing! I have to admit that I am impressed with the positive comments regarding Probe and the community of owners. Very few negative comments regarding the car and plenty support those they own them. Glad to hear all of this!

[@keenhr8t4blues]

Enjoyed your video, Thanks! I'm still driving my 95 Probe GT atx, bought it new in 95 and am grateful it still runs great with 115,000 mi. I miss Probetalk, glad I printed out a bunch of stuff when it was still online. I abhor facebook but if I get desperate, I might consider resorting to it for info. Every other car I drive, even if new, is torture comparatively. It's an ugly downright shame suv's pushed them out of the market. I also get many comments from people that previously owned one, and they all say they'd rather still drive a Probe instead of their new car.

[@skip741x3]

@@keenhr8t4blues Thats really low mi for a 29yr old car! Mines a 94gt bought new and I still own and drive it daily.. mine is about 280k at this point

[@doggerracing5243]

Thanks for another interesting model review. I bought a Probe GT in 93. I really enjoyed that car. Silky smooth engine with a refined independent suspension, good brakes and an excellent 5 speed transmission all wrapped in a body shape that was easy on the eyes. It had some shortcomings, but it was a fun and reliable daily driver.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thanks for sharing and I'm glad you enjoyed the video!

[@losdawidos1158]

I recently bought one for myself. The 1996 GT version from Canada and shipped to Poland. The performance is absolutely gorgeous. After some adjustments at my trusted engineering company they did magic to this car. It’s my first coupe after driving an Outlander for over 2 years and it just feels great! Also the fwd feels smoth and i know that its half japanese but comparing to my 100% japanese suv it really handles everything like a pro. The looks are stunning, it sounds amazing and pop up headlights with big spoiler and some improvements with the body kit works great. Im glad to own one of these and looking forward to maintain it. Good video, everything is clear. Thanks for it and have a good day ;) Best wishes

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thank for sharing!

[@RobiticDuck]

I've owned two Probe GTs. A '93 and currently a laser red metallic '95 GT manual. It's a great cruiser and looks good parked next to my '86 RX-7

[@meyo1860]

I loved when my parents took the kids down to Toronto Harbourfront where we would come across random Ford cars on display along the shore line. I drooled over the Merkur cars, but that weekend we came across the ‘89 Probe GT display, my mind almost blew apart!! Ford was on 🔥

[@plap.]

The second gen GT i always thought looked amazing. They were pretty quick. Police in my state even had MX 6 turbos and were no joke.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thanks for sharing

[@dudefromtx1404]

I had the 1989 Ford Probe GT and really liked it, and had no mechanical issues to about 60,000 miles until some lady on medications pulled out in front of me and totalled it.

[@jamisonbartlett7840]

I just picked up a 5 speed 96 ford probe with only 82k miles for 1400 bucks, been a ton of fun so far and im looking forward to restoring it completely!

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Very Awesome! Glad to hear it!

[@MichaelMontalvo-if4wv]

Nearly got this car as my first 5 years ago but went with a 92 Honda Hatchback. Greatly wise of me

[@Johnnyk999]

I owned the Probe twin, actually a 1988 Mazda 626 GT hatchback. Bought used in '92, with about 60k miles on it. Cons: A/C was leaky; trans axle boots would split every 2 - 3 yrs; motorized passive restraint that eventually failed, so used the separate lap belt; frameless windows with tracking clips that eventually rusted off. Pros: 2.2L intercooled turbo loved to rev, tight R&P steering, 5 spd manual, never failed to start; 3-grade adjustable suspension; easy to maintain. Had 240k on it after 20 yrs, never had to replace the (hydraulic) clutch, thanks to the low gearing of 1st gear. With a light weight body, the hatchback was very utilitarian, with flat-folding rear seats. It was a delight to drive, and performed much better than some friends' sports cars I drove back in the day. Someone once posted a YT video of driving one at 140 mph. Interior was head and shoulders above it's Probe twin. Really hated to part with it after 20 yrs.

[@katieandkevinsears7724]

Thank you for mentioning the 3rd gen Probe becoming the Cougar. I own a 2002 with 47,000 miles on it. Just 4 cylinders and a 5 speed manual getting 37mpg 22 years after it rolled off the line.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thank you for watching and that sounds like a nice ride.

[@wesd2845]

Great video Tony! A friend of mine purchased a new early model Probe and it was definitely an improvement over the Escort I was driving at the time. The Probe wasn't known for its speed but it did drive and handle very well and the interior was definitely an upgrade over the Escort.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thanks for your comment and for watching Wes!

[@redalfa22]

A 94 Probe GT was my first new car. While lacking the V8 charisma of my prior 79 Z28 and 82 Mustang GT, it more than made up for it with higher build quality and overall sophistication. The 2.5L V6 was pure joy with excellent handling as well. I would love to own another one!

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thanks for sharing your experience and for watching.

[@johnnycashlesscomedy8616]

like a few people mentioned, the 94 Probe GT was my first new car. It was white with a grey interior and got a ton of looks. I fitted it with K&N intake and aftermarket exhaust for a small but noticeable boost in power. I really loved that car but after 10 years it was requiring a decent amount of maintenance, and the guy I sold it to dropped me off to pick up my new car, a 2004 Mazda RX-8 with manual transmission. It was a fantastic upgrade in the Mazda family. Unfortunately those early year rotaries has issues with apex seals and blew my engine, so I went with what will be my final vehicle; a 997.2 Targa 4S 911. Hatchback like the Probe, ans 2 back seats as well. Funny thing is when I decided to get the Porsche, people assumed it was some sort of mid-life crisis (which psychologists think is a myth anyway) but the reality I have always been driving these kind of practical hatch back sports cars. My first was a Celica GT 5 speed, a hatch as well.

[@seanfrip9036]

I own a 1993 Probe GT it was a awesome car. Not a straight line 1/4 mile car but It was a good handling car and V6 made wonderful noise😅. I wish Ford had all the Mustang E the Probe.

[@seanfrip9036]

Wish Ford had call the mustang E the probe

[@pierreroberge4927]

I had a black 97 GT, 5-speed. Bought brand new. Loved that car. It would corner incredibly well with 225s. The V6 was super smooth and the sound coming out of the exhaust pipe was lovely.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@pierreroberge4927]

@@TonysFordsandMustangs Thanks you are encouraging me to share more . I used to drive from Sunnyvale down to Santa Cruz on the 17, in California. This is a very curvy road and it was a lot of fun to drive in my Probe. At one point, I had a jeep with a bigger engine that could keep up with me in straight-aways. I think the Jeep must have had a 4 liter V6 or something like that at the time. At one point I had enough and floored it. There was something special with the Probe when you floored it. You could have the pedal 1/16 of an inch from the metal and it would not pull that same as flooring it. I assume there was a switch that would trigger a different mapping for the fuel/O2 sensor or something but you felt it. It felt like a mini turbo push. It was not, but felt like it a bit. Anyway, I floored and I left the Jeep behind on a steep hill going up. I was impressed. Of course I would have lost him in the curves. Good times. Coupled with a Valentine one, I never got caught. Black car, hidden headlights, Valentine one, even lidar could not get me.

[@MrSloika]

Owned an '89 LX. Not much power but it had all the options....flip up sunroof, power everything, digital dash. I replaced the original struts with Tokico blues and it handled surprisingly well and got over 30mpg on the highway.

[@terrylessmann2274]

Had a red 89 GT, a teal 93 GT, and a dark green 97 GT, all bought new, all great cars. The 89 would get 35mpg on the interstate. The 97 was the best looking w/ chrome wheels and beige int. Unfortunately it was saddled with an auto trans. Probes were great cars for the time.

[@brilliant59]

Ever notice when Ford and Mazda get together the cars are good? My daughter bought a new 2013 Mazda Cx5 and has never had any problems to this day. The car still looks new. Had many Mazdas over the years, great cars. Would love to have a CX90, but I will wait until the financial crash and cars come down.

[@etiennegregoire3091]

In 95 i had 2 SVOs my wife wanted a ProbeGT. We had it for years. Turn out to be a good car with the only issues the crank sensor connector of poor quality that would an occasional no start and oil leaks in the plug holes. I remember changing the timing belt on it...that was fun !!!

[@darrellhigley4523]

Purchased new a 1st generation 1989 and loved it! Blue with blue. Drove until just under 300k, changed the alternator once, ford mechanic said to use a Mazda 626, 1/3 the cost and lasted from 100k and was in the car when I traded it. Simple maintenance provided a long lasting car… Still with I owned it!

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thank you for sharing your experience

[@bomguy999999]

I had a 89 base model. Bought it used in 91. Good enough car. No issues in 5 or so years. Although that torque steer was real if you floored it and werent expecting it.

[@asideofbeans5803]

I have a 1993 GT and it hadn’t run in almost 20 years when I bought it. All it needed was a new battery and it fired right up and has had very few issues since. The community for this car is by far the most enjoyable car community I’ve ever seen.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Very awesome! Thanks for sharing your experience

[@WALTERBROADDUS]

You actually still have a Ford Probe?🙆🏽‍♂️ I thought these things were extinct? I haven't seen one in 30 years.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

@@WALTERBROADDUS There are quite a few of those cars running around. Some owners tucked them away just like the foxbody owners.

[@WALTERBROADDUS]

@@TonysFordsandMustangs Really? 🤔 I can't remember seeing one outside of a Carlisle Ford car show? Personally, my last favorite ride was my Lincoln Mark VIII LSC. I miss that car.😥

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

@@WALTERBROADDUS I see them on Facebook Marketplace all time they are out there.

[@tonybrown6775]

I remember when that car came out. A friend of mine his dad bought one. Remember ridding in it sometimes. Definitely different.

[@autochatter]

Awesome vid! Funny how the 94 Mustang, costing about the same as a Probe that year, is likely what killed it....Considering the Probe was to be the next Mustang in the first place

[@billnorris3305]

Buddy had a 1995 GT. Fun car. Pretty reliable. Had issues with the parking brake. I remember him parking it on a slight incline and watching it roll into the street. One other time we got out of the car and heard this weird noise coming from the back. We got out to look just in time to catch the passenger rear glass that somehow fell out.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thanks for sharing your experience and for watching!

[@bobuncle8704]

Seen them, never been in one. Anyone opi knew to have one was pleased with it. I’ve always been a Mustang or F series guy.

[@jeromehoward1249]

I never rode on a Ford Probe, but I imagine it would be a good experience.

[@lancer.5603]

I owned a ‘93 Probe GT in white, 5-speed, and that thing would flat out run. 24v DOHC would wind up and could handle like it was on rails. Even still today the Gen2 Probe GT of that generation is a sleek and sexy looking car. I then traded that in for a 95 Probe GT in Chameleon Blue. This one was fully loaded. I am still quite a fan of this car. I’ve sometimes thought what if I could search and find one for sale to buy just to have one again.

[@James-rn7dx]

My Sister and Mother had a first-generation Probe, and I had a 94 Probe GT myself in the early 2000s, Both were great reliable cars and fun to drive.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thanks for sharing!

[@Dwilso621]

Got my sub, thanks for this! I’ve had 3 2nd gen Probes. Love them, not so much the 1G. The Probe community is a loyal and passionate group. Haha.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Awesome thank you for subscribing!

[@CrustyCodger]

Drove a 1994 PGT for 25 yrs, never let me down. Apart from a bad igniter in the distry early on, only had to change a couple timing belts & water pumps. 249,000 miles later scraped her because the paint was flaking. Engine had another 250,000 left in her. Great car!

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@AntonisHL]

Although never had a Ford Probe, I still think that the second generation Probe GT in red is very beautiful.

[@nickn815]

I really liked the second gen styling especially in the GT trim, unfortunately I wasn’t ready to buy a new car until 2000 and I got the ZX2 which had some cues from the Probe

[@realgtasacramentodashcam7292]

I randomly wanted to watch a Probe video today and this video posted yesterday came up in search, seems like a sign to subscribe.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

I wouldn't argue with the algorithm. :) Thanks for watching!

[@pgtmr2713]

All they had to do was make it RWD and it would be hanging with 240s. Well, beating them. They could've gone with Maverick for the name, OR thrown darts at letters blindfolded to come up with a better name. I like the 2nd gen exclusively, more refined, better looking, more options, paint colors were wild. They put a lot into it, both Ford and Mazda.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

I don't think it was bad as it was. I think the launch (awful) and the fact that the market for sports cars was shrinking is what did it in. SUV's were becoming popular with younger buyers.

[@georgeburns7251]

Probe was actually a name used on Fords race car at that time.

[@bikingD]

Probe, MX6 and 240 all hung together. They were sporty woman's cars when new. My ex had a 240 new and was a nice car. Guys if they wanted a performance Japanese sporty cars at the time bought Talon's and Eclipse's.

[@MrRazortimes]

If they had a rallye version like the celica s185 and a rear engine like peugeot did for 205 i’m sure it would have done incredibly well in europe

[@pgtmr2713]

@@MrRazortimes Mazda had a more powerful version of the second gen V6 engine, bolt in swap. They could've made RS's. It's a very common swap, so that and some badges. That would've been before the SVT Contour, before the Focus SVT and RS. 7250 rpm NA V6 ripper.

[@sfoonsfo]

A story idea.... that Mercury Cougar (Probe gen 3)

[@John-kx3ng]

Had a 1990 Ford Probe GL and absolutely loved it! I know it was the base model but being 20 years old at the time I thought it was so cool.Had it for 4 years and other than normal maintenance no problems with mine. Btw I knew it was a Mazda! Lol

[@saleen367]

I ordered a new 93 GT and later purchased a red 94 GT, both 5 speeds. These cars handled well but really needed another 40hp. The SHO engine at the time would have been a good fit, however that would have created a rival to the Mustang, FWD and all. I have fond memories of my Probe GT's regardless of its not so well thought out name.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thanks for sharing!

[@pgtmr2713]

They didn't need the SHO engine. They needed the Japanese version of the same V6. Bolts in. Even runs on the stock ECU. If you want all the beans, headers an Maf swap(w/ecu). Lighter engine and the hood fits. It has it's own intake tricks. Sub 6 seconds to 60, over 7k rpm. SHO was around 7 - 60

[@bradbradley353]

Friend of mine bought an original Gt. Beautiful car. He however, thought because of the road and track article it would easily handle my new 90lx notch…it didn’t…suffice to say I think my 2.73 geared notch hurt his feelings. Still it was a very nice car and deserved to be marketed much better…

[@maxymax3425]

I drove one for about a month from a company job transfer back in the mid 90's. I was presently surprised how smooth it drove and the large roomy back. I think compared to a V6 Mustang, is a better car- more modern feel.

[@vollste]

I owned a ‘93 (best year!) PGT, 5spd (of course) bought used in ‘95. Amazing car. I modded it, raced it in SCCA autocross and track events at Grattan Raceway and Gingerman in west MI. I was beating cars with much more HP and often taking first place in my class back in early 2000’s. I got this car up to 146mph on a stock engine, testament to its aerodynamic efficiency.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thanks for sharing! very cool

[@strife3084]

My first car was an 89 Ford Probe turbo. I absolutely adored that thing and can thank it for introducing me to the world of forced induction. this eventually led me to building one of the quickest civics in the , for its time. I can atest to its reliability. I beat the ever loving shit out of the thing from the time I drove it off the lot until it let the clutch go draging a mustang on the freeway in Ohio at 1 in the morning. the 3 years I owned it, the only thing that let go was the clutch and an axle. with the amount of abuse I put down, I can honestly say I am impressed. My dad would flip if he ever heard me say this, but good job on this one, Ford.

[@trippm4036]

Thanks for including one brief photo of the beautiful MX-6. If the MX-6 was Cinderella, the Probe was the ugly stepsister. I think the drop in sales of the Probe came mainly from the enthusiasm and practicality of the Taurus.

[@Hobotraveler82]

Love the looks of the second gen. Maverick would have been better than Probe. 😊

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Totally agree

[@TK-ff5kc]

Wife had a 1990 GT, white with red interior. Only issue we had was the driver widow wouldn't come back up after being put down.

[@mmahtnart8986]

I owned a 94' GT 6 cylinder manual. I liked it. It was ok.

[@RoadRunnergarage8570]

I believe I have seen model kits of the Probe... Maybe one day if I locate one at a decent price...

[@gsdfan8455]

I had a good friend that had a Probe gt. I don’t remember what year it was, but it was a blast. My ‘86 Mustang SVO would absolutely smoke it though.

[@cmoore7700]

Bought a 96 SE Probe brand new The dealer put in a pop up sunroof and stripes down the side As it turns out my 4 cylinder 5 speed was one of the best cars I ever owned. I believe just brake pads, oil changes and tires. I believe I traded it with about 165 k on her for my 02 LeSabre which I still drive to this day Thanks for the topic Stay well

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thank you for watching and for your comment.

[@The_Night_Driver]

My sister had a late 90s probe, she never changed the the oil even once.she would rarely even top up the oil. She would drive it weeks at a time with the oil so low it would not even show on the dipstick. Same goes for coolant and steering fluid. That car ran for years like that and was 100% reliable until she traded it in for a new car.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

That is impressive. I feel bad for the cars in her future.

[@thebionicbassplayer]

Alot of people treat their cars like your sister, but then complain that the model is garbage when it prematurely breaks down. That shows the Probe was a reliable vehicle.

[@skip741x3]

thats brutal bro! LOL. ive got to check the oil level every 3 or 4 days of driving becuz that v6 is both burning and dripping oil at near 300k mi... I'd never ever let it get to the low mark on the stick or so low it wouldnt even read though, man, thats just cruel

[@JCVACCARO]

My girlfriend had a Probe GT 5 spd in 89. It was ok but no Mustang GT. My friend's 89 Shelby Daytona used to absolutely smoke her Probe. Boy do I remember all the talk about this replacing the Mustang. Mustang guys gals were pissed.

[@gregoryleo4640]

Mercury Cougar replaced Ford Probe at the Flat Rock manufacturing plant. But inside Ford dealerships, the Probe was replaced by Escort ZX2.

[@brentboswell1294]

Front wheel drive and enthusiast interest rarely intersect...I think the Mini and the Volkswagen GTI are two of the rare exceptions. Maybe the Dodge Omni GLH 😊

[@janvanek9745]

I Love my probe so much

[@DSP1968]

A great summary. I always thought there were very nice (if poorly named) cars.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Agreed and thanks for watching!

[@SRDFMC]

KLZE V6 version of the engine for the Japanese market made 200hp, bringing a significant (+25%) improvement in performances for a lightweight and aerodynamic body, as well as a better sonority (power band came at a higher rpm). The main problem with the Probe II, at least for European owners, was the (ridiculously) expensive spare parts and services. This car was also doomed by the lack of a transmission shaft to the rear wheels, not so much by the absence of a V8. 1990s V6 cars faired generally well.

[@bradwhite4827]

Whoever said if it was rear wheel drive and would be a perfect car to compare to the 240s was absolutely correct! That’s all they needed to do! But keep the mustang also!

[@michaelsimko7694]

The Probe had a very similar exterior design to some other cars of the 80s and 90s. The second gen looks very similar to an RX-7, Integra, Supra, and Aurora. Even a very similar front fascia to the BMW 850.

[@youknowit888-kt4en]

I remember the Probe... I had a fully loaded, black 88 GT 5MT and I really did like it. Was a fun car to use going back and forth to work. Then I remember leaving the 97 Probe GT & 96 Mustang GT in the dust with my silver 97 Grand Prix GTP Coupe 😂 blew the doors off of everything Ford had on the road then. Still have the Mighty GTP, and she can still hold her own. Recently found another 88 Probe GT 5MT, thus time with red paint for sale and I'm thinking about buying it...🤔 1 owner, all original with 91K miles that's been sitting for over 20 years, so it needs a lot of work, but its undercoated body is super clean... if I buy it, I think I will swap the drive train with a 2018 Ford Focus RS... idk...

[@tstahler5420]

I had a '94 Mazda MX-6, weren't they basically the same car? Loved that car.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

They were basically the same car. Thank for watching!

[@jasonrogers8754]

I didn't know a CD player was an option for anything in 1990. I was only 8 years old at the time but as far as I can remember CDs weren't a thing until the mid-90s.

[@charlotteruse158]

I bought a 93 GT 5 speed in 2007 that had been in an old mans driveway for a year and he wanted it out of there. I paid 700 dollars for it. It had never been wrecked ran like a dream, interior was clean. I replaced two back tires that cost 250 a piece. It was iceberg blue. I loved that car. It was fast, it hugged the curves, sat low to the ground, lumbar seats, big compartment in in the back. I went to jail for a couple of unpaid traffic tickets and my car got towed to the impound yard from my daughters apartment complex because it wasn't registered with the office. Anyway, I didn't have the money to go get it. Huge mistake. Huge. Such a good looking sporty car. My favorite ever. One day though....

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thanks for sharing your experience. Sorry about you losing the car. That's rough.

[@victorxavier9977]

I had a 93 Probe GT as a daily driver until an old guy T-boned me and totaled the car. I enjoyed it for the short period of time I had it.

[@riftedgegaming1810]

I'm curious. I had a Ford probe back in the day. As far as I know it was a 1990 probe lx. It had the 3.0 V6 Mazda motor but it had an auto trans that you could switch to a manual shifting mode. I can't seem to find that. Did I have a rare car or what? It was white with hub caps. All I'm seeing for 90 was manual

[@martinfrnaco6752]

Tengo un probe y es un coche excepcional.

[@thumperjdm]

Had a roommate in the 1990's, who traded-in her Ford Probe for a BMW 318i. After just a few short weeks, she realized she'd made a huge mistake.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

BMW's can be complicated. Thanks for watching!

[@timsimmons5190]

My mom had one and all I can remember is that the trunk use to have water in it someway somehow lol

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

It had to have a bad hatch or window seal. Thanks for watching!

[@luisrazi]

We had a ‘89 LX and it smoked the alternators every 12 months. Only issue it had , but that was enough for us to hate it.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Something was off with that car. I hear very few negative comments on the Probes.

[@cardwellave2]

I sure miss when car manufacturers had something for everyone’s taste. Everything is identical now in different sizes.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Agreed! Thanks for watching!

[@JohnSmith-yz7fg]

Had a 93 and 94 both had the transmission go out

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

I guess you would be part of the "very few horror stories" I mentioned in the video. Thanks for watching

[@skip741x3]

@@TonysFordsandMustangs My stock 94 gt is still on its original clutch and the tranny has never caused any issues....I dont beat on it though...well maybe alittle when it and me were alot younger !! Got it when I was 34 and Im 64 now LOL.

[@jimlafreeda43]

Funny I remember working on the 1st Gen Probe at Sears but not the 2nd.....I moved to a different role in 1994 so that might be why. The 2nd Gen had a much better look in my opinion. Very sporty!

[@derangeddwayne5532]

I think they could have brought back the falcon name and it would have fit the car. Had a blue 1989 lx I bought in 1990 after I totaled my 1988.5 Escort GT. Miss both those cars

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Absolutely agree. Thank you for watching my video. I have an Escort video on the channel as well. kzbin.info/www/bejne/a4mwpnaPiceqbZY

[@Teddy-mj2zx]

Yeah, I bought one. I was young and I thought it was cool looking. But, I went on to buy several Mustangs. Nothing beats displacement.

[@JP-gw9ts]

Does anyone know how many of the 22k 1997s made were bought with the GTS package?

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

@@JP-gw9ts I do not and Ford didn’t break it down for you.

[@tedzehnder961]

The 2nd gen car was sharp and the most forward looking and ahead of it`s time. American car companies seem to always shoot themselves in the foot by canceling lines that should have been perfected. GM did it to the 2nd gen Fiero GT. So the Japanese grabbed that segment.

[@sampsonleevon1982]

I thought of star trek ie the name...a spy rocket...anyway from start to finish I wanted one...they seemed great, looked great and wasn't bland. Making me a Ford fan still.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

That's certainly how Ford looked at it is as well. A using a word that has a double meaning is never a good idea even if 10% view it the other way it is not a good thing. Thanks for watching!

[@billkerstein1637]

The 1989 model looked ok as a GT and performance and all was good for a 4 cylinder car. The '93 up GT really improved its looks and interior and all but the performance didn't match is good looks. I stuck with my reliable 10k '86 Fox 5.0 5speed and won lots of races and had tons of cheap fun and mods. Probes were much more expensive to fix like a Mazda and where are they all now? Foxes are still very abundant in all forms.

[@RobertBoston-n4d]

Well

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thanks for watching. I saw several Probes at Carlisle last weekend and a ton of Foxes. In the Probes defense they were treated as transportation and used up. Many Mustangs were pampered by their owners from new and that makes a big difference.

[@houseofno]

What really damaged the Probe's reputation is that it was underpowered compared with several of its competitors. Even the Nissan 240 SX overpowered it by ten to fifteen horsepower once Nissan upgraded the 2.4 to the twin cam version putting out 155 hp. The Celica All Trac Turbo was a 200 hp beast. But the car that was really putting the smack down on the Ford Probe were the Diamond Star twins, which depending on the model and year, was putting out anywhere from 195 to 210 hp. These could also be had with all wheel drive, as with the Toyota Celica All Trac Turbo. Ford could have put the 220 hp SHO V6 engine in this and really wiped out the competition.

[@MrSloika]

The Probe was knee capped by Ford because they didn't want a car that was faster than the Mustang. By the time the 2nd gen Probe came along Ford had a monster hit with the Explorer and they let the Probe die on the vine. It really was the correct biz decision. SUVs and pickups were machines that printed money for the car companies. Today not a single car company sells a hatchback coupe in the US.

[@skip741x3]

I think those diamond star cars were doing 6.5 to 60 more or less, a good full sec faster than the gt probe...

[@jameshastey3058]

I always liked the Probe's looks, but the Probe was let down by it's powertrain options. I always thought Ford should have made the Taurus SHO engine, 5 speed manual transmission, and an AWD setup (Ford had the AWD setup from the Tempo available to use) an option for the Probe. The Probe's primary competitor was the Mitsubishi Eclipse (and it's other Diamond Star siblings). Looks between the Probe and Eclipse were similar (at least for the Probe's 1st generation) - but at every trim level step, the Diamond Star cars had the horsepower and handling edge. In the mid-90's I owned a '91 Eclipse GSX (turbo AWD), and racing Probes (even Probe GT's) was like clubbing baby seals. The SHO V6 option would have made even more sense once the Vulcan V6 became an option. The SHO engine would have significantly outgunned the Diamond Star cars in terms of horsepower and performance.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

I understand your points and thank you for watching my video. This car was a more a Mazda than a Ford so you have too look at their line up more than Fords to find the upgrades.

[@jameshastey3058]

@@TonysFordsandMustangs Saying that Ford couldn't have put the SHO engine/driveline into the Probe is stretching it considering that Mopar made a groundbreaking muscle car family by dropping a modern Hemi V8 into what was essentially a W210 series 2nd Generation Mercedes E class to make the now famous LX platform cars (300, Magnum, Charger, Challenger). A few years after I got rid of my Eclipse, I bought a 1991 MX-6 GT and while it drove nice enough and was reasonably reliable, it never had the punch of the Eclipse. The 2nd generation Probe would have been a tougher fit, but the 1st generation Probe would have easily handled the SHO engine since a few folks have already done the swap. Ford didn't want to spend the extra money to make the SHO V6 an option and that is why the Eclipse was in production 15 model years after the Probe was discontinued. About the only thing Ford/Mazda did better with on the Probe/MX-6 than Chrysler/Mitsubishi did with the Eclipse/Talon/Laser was differentiating the Probe from the MX-6 style wise. The Probe and MX-6 used completely different bodies - they only shared underpinnings and powertrains. The only differences in the Diamond Star cars was badging and some very minor trim (body molding/spoilers) differences.

[@GSXSF1k]

My '89 Ford Probe GT beat the Mustang GT from 0-80 mph all day. My 1993 Ford Probe GT was a handler the best mid-range power in the early '90s. The Porsche 911 could not keep up with me in the mid-range. Awesome car that Ford should not have killed this car

[@rjnproductions2855]

My first car 1995 Probe GT black 5 speed. Graduated in 07 and that car was hot! chicks loved it lol. 5 speed , intake, exhaust, bought it with only 40k on it. Drove it into the ground at 160k burned two clutches racing that thing and acting like a fool, did take an lt1 tTans Am from a roll. Truly was a great car. Honestly this is one of the only ford cars to threaten the Stang, and I think that says a lot. in fact she's still on KZbin , kzbin.info/www/bejne/gXWQXmetgtF6i8ksi=NuTo2u_puAFJHFMY can't believe this video has 81k views hah

[@theplayernkc]

1st Gen Probe was a decent looking car, I thought it was cool how the door mirrors were blended into the finder. 2nd Gen Probes are a very good looking car, much better than the 1st Gen. Can't say I dislike either Gen, but glad Ford didn't kill off the Mustang for it or run it along side as another version of the Mustang. The Mustang Mach-E isn't bad either, but using the Mustang name on it was a misstep on Ford's part IMO. I think the Mustang Mach-E would sell better with a different name.

[@saleendriver]

I actually owned an 89 Probe GT Turbo. I tired to buy a Fox Mustang, but only being in my early 20s I couldn't get insurance on a Mustang. But the GT was damn nice. Screwed together very well, and quick enough. And after throwing a few HKS turbo upgrades to the car, as well as a suspension kit and better wheels/tires, the car was a blast to drive. I really liked it, and kept it until 1994 when I traded it in on a Taurus SHO. I did get my Mustang in 2000.....a Saleen. But that is another story.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Thanks for watching and sharing your experience.

[@bradyelich2745]

Fun fact: Canada never had a gas crisis. Too bad Canada only had the Bricklin.

[@TonysFordsandMustangs]

Fun fact if you are Canadian. :)

[@bradyelich2745]

@@TonysFordsandMustangs Well, yes. We have the tar sands. proof oil is abiotic. oil running out is the first big scam, now we have climate change scam. Remember when the earth was freezing in the 1970's?

[@EffequalsMA]

I was at the drag strip mucho years ago and we are bsing in the pits and buddy want to run me in his gen 1 probe gt. I'm saying sure in my v8 ox 5.0 with a blower on. I hole shot the he'll out of him and then he steam rolls me at about 880 and blows past me. Yup big turbo built engine under hood etc. Car broke 130 in the quarter and looked completely stock. Can't fool anyone twice with that gig. Anyway, that's me Probe story 😁