Modern Classics: Ford Probe, 1989-1997

The base GL model (base price approximately $14,000) came standard with a new 2.0-litre DOHC (Double Overhead Cam) engine producing 118 horsepower while the GT version (base price approximately $15,500) was equipped with a new 2.5-litre, 164-horsepower DOHC V6 powerplant.

1993 Ford Probe. Click image to enlarge

Additional appointments available on the GT version included low profile 16-inch tires, five-spoke aluminum wheels, unique front and rear fascia, leather-wrapped steering wheel and a rear wing which was a dealer installed accessory. Leather seating was available on all models.

The smoothness of the V6 engine gave the Probe a distinct advantage over its competitors, most of which offered only four-cylinder powerplants. The V6 combined with Ford’s philosophy of designing cars with a low aerodynamic drag coefficient made the Probe a strong contender in the hatchback sports coupe market. Transmission choices offered at the time were a four-speed automatic or five-speed G5M manual.

If you’re in the market for such a “modern classic,” focus your attention on the 1993 to 1997 models, and in particular the GT version. Ford released a special edition GTS version in 1997, its final production year. This GTS version sported dual stripes “running” front to back over the hood, roof and rear hatch and came standard with chrome 16-inch wheels.

The base model proved to have the same good looks but lacked to a great extent the extra performance that came with the 2.5-litre, 164 horsepower V6 engine. Road tests at the time suggested 0 – 100 km/h times in the 7.5 second range. The GT was both nimble and agile and reviews at the time suggested owners would truly enjoy a sports-oriented driving experience.

1996 Ford Probe. Click image to enlarge

Steering proved to be both light and positive and body roll was minimal by 1990’s standards. The Probe was by no stretch of the imagination a high-performance vehicle, but it certainly did represent a hatchback sports coupe that could and did hold its own against some pretty stiff competition.

Owner complaints regarding the Ford Probe related to the unusually miniscule rear-view mirrors as well as the stiffer ride offered by the more performance-oriented GT version (small price to pay for improved handling and performance), mostly in the second generation models. Owners had also noted that in order for the V6 engine to truly come alive it would have to be revved beyond 4,500 rpms, but once there, provided exhilarating performance.

In conclusion, if you have a particular admiration for the blue oval and are looking for something other than the Mustang to provide you with a modern classic driving experience, then the Ford Probe is worthy of your attention. There were not many cars at the time that offered a combination of sleek looks and decent performance with a “boot” large enough to carry all your luggage plus a set of golf clubs.

For additional information on the Ford Probe, one of the best on-line resources is located “across the pond,” at UKPOC.co.uk.

Related posts:

1. Modern Classics: Ford Taurus SHO, 1989 – 1999
2. Modern Classics: Mazda MX-6, 1988-1997
3. Modern Classics: Dodge Dakota Convertible, 1989-1991
4. Modern Classics: Toyota Supra, 1979-1997
5. Modern Classics: Ford SVT Contour, 1998-2000