The 1980s and 1990s represent a celebrated era for accessible Sports Cars. Automakers at the time keenly understood the desire for stylish, enjoyable coupes that delivered a taste of high-performance driving without the exorbitant price tags. These vehicles were specifically crafted to appeal to younger enthusiasts, blending eye-catching aesthetics with responsive handling and sufficient power to transform everyday drives into thrilling experiences.
During this vibrant period, competition within the sports car market was intense. Japanese manufacturers aggressively innovated with turbocharged engines and lightweight chassis designs, while American brands sought to modernize their own interpretations of the affordable sports coupe. Consumers benefited from a wealth of choices, ranging from agile four-cylinder models to more potent V6-powered machines. While some of these vehicles became instant classics, securing a permanent place in automotive lore, others faced initial skepticism and struggled to gain traction. One particular car, despite its rocky start, is now experiencing a notable resurgence in popularity, with values on the rise as enthusiasts rediscover its unique appeal.
Everyone Laughed At The Ford Probe, But It’s Now Increasingly Sought After as a Budget Sports Car
Ford Probe Generational Specs
| Specification | First-gen Ford Probe | Second-gen Ford Probe |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 1989-1992 | 1993-1997 |
| Platform | Mazda GD | Mazda GE |
| Engine options | 2.2L I4, 2.2L Turbo I4, 3.0L V6 | 2.0L I4, 2.5L V6 |
| Power range | 110-145 hp | 118-164 hp |
| Torque range | 130-190 lb/ft | 125-156 lb/ft |
| Transmission options | 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic | 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic |
| 0-60 mph (fastest variant) | 7.5 sec (Turbo GT) | 7.1 sec (GT V6) |
| Top speed (fastest variant) | 130 mph | 135 mph |
| Curb weight | 2,592-2,932 lbs | 2,650-2,850 lbs |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive |
Source: Ford
When the Ford Probe debuted in the late 1980s, it was met with immediate doubt. Initially conceived as a front-wheel-drive, Japanese-engineered replacement for the iconic Mustang, purists vehemently opposed the concept. The backlash was so strong that Ford made the decision to continue the Mustang lineage, allowing the Probe to forge its own identity as a distinct sports car.
Despite its aerodynamic styling, respectable performance for an entry-level sports car, and the undeniably cool pop-up headlights, the Probe struggled to win widespread acceptance. It was continuously overshadowed by its near-miss status as the “almost-Mustang,” causing many to overlook its inherent qualities as a capable and stylish sports coupe. Even its name became the subject of jokes. However, with the passage of time, enthusiasts are starting to appreciate the Probe’s unique attributes, leading to a renewed interest and a rise in its market value as a classic sports car.
The second generation Ford Probe GT, introduced for the 1993 model year, significantly enhanced its predecessor, primarily due to its Mazda-designed 2.5-liter V6 engine. This engine produced 164 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience characteristic of a true sports car. The V6’s performance was competitive for its era, enabling 0-60 mph acceleration in approximately 7.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of around 135 mph, figures that align with many contemporary sports cars.
The Probe GT’s handling was refined by a well-engineered suspension system, featuring MacPherson struts both at the front and rear, along with front and rear stabilizer bars. This configuration resulted in precise steering and balanced ride, crucial for an engaging sports car driving experience. A five-speed manual transmission was favored by sports car purists, while a four-speed automatic catered to drivers seeking more relaxed cruising.
From An Affordable Sports Car of the 90s to A Rising Collectible Gem
At its launch, the 1993 Ford Probe GT was priced competitively within the sports car market segment. The base model started at around $13,175, while the GT variant was priced at approximately $15,504. A fully equipped model with the V6 engine would cost around $18,000. This pricing strategy positioned the Probe as an accessible sports car option for enthusiasts seeking performance without a significant financial burden.
In comparison, some of its rivals in the sports car class were more expensive. For example, the Toyota Celica with the 1.6-liter engine started at about $18,000, with the 2.2-liter models costing around $20,000. The Honda Prelude, another popular sports car, was also pricier, ranging from $20,000 to $23,000 for the more powerful 190-horsepower variant. Even its technological sibling, the Mazda MX-6 sports car, was more expensive, starting at around $18,000 for the base model, with the V6 version exceeding $20,000.
For many years, the Ford Probe remained an underrated and affordable used sports car, often available at very reasonable prices. Roughly 10 to 15 years ago, it was possible to find a decent Probe for as little as $2,000. However, recent market trends indicate a change, with well-maintained examples now commanding higher values as they become recognized as classic sports cars from the 90s.
Notably, a 1993 Ford Probe GT with a mere 7,000 miles on the odometer sold at auction for $18,000 in April 2024. Furthermore, another 1993 Probe GT with 33,000 miles fetched $15,500 in November 2024. Even for examples with higher mileage, finding one in good condition for under $6,000 is increasingly difficult, depending on the year and features, signaling its growing status as a desirable sports car.
Are You Buying A Ford Probe V6 Sports Car? Watch Out For These Issues
Leveraging Japanese engineering, the Probe GT V6 is generally a reliable sports car. While finding a low-mileage example today is unlikely, even higher-mileage cars can still be sound. However, it’s crucial to be aware of certain areas that might need attention when considering purchasing this sports car.
Maintaining a V6-powered Probe involves moderate annual expenses. According to RepairPal, the average yearly maintenance cost is approximately $425, although this can fluctuate depending on factors such as age, mileage, and service location. YourMechanic provides a broader estimate, with maintenance and repair costs ranging from $105 to $2,077, averaging around $337 for this sports car.
Common Mechanical And Electrical Issues in a Used Sports Car like the Ford Probe
Mazda MX-6 – A Sibling Sports Car From Another Brand
The Ford Probe’s development was intrinsically linked to the Mazda MX-6, as both vehicles were products of the Ford and Mazda collaboration. Sharing the same platform and mechanical components, the MX-6 presented a different interpretation of the affordable sports coupe concept.
The second-generation MX-6 shared the same 2.5-liter V6 engine as the second-generation Probe GT, delivering comparable performance figures in a sports car package. However, the MX-6 featured distinct styling, characterized by a more subtle and elegant design compared to the Probe’s more aggressive appearance. Inside, the MX-6 offered a driver-centric cockpit with slightly higher-grade materials, aiming for a more refined sports car feel. The aesthetic design, both interior and exterior, differed significantly between the MX-6 and the Probe.
Mazda MX-6 Generations Specs as a Comparable Sports Car
| Specification | First-gen Mazda MX-6 | Second-gen Mazda MX-6 |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 1988-1992 | 1993-1997 |
| Platform | Mazda GD | Mazda GE |
| Engine options | 1.8L I4, 2.0L l4, 2.2L l4, 2.2L Turbo l4 | 2.0L I4, 2.5L V6 |
| Power range | 110-145 hp | 118-164 hp |
| Torque range | 130-190 lb/ft | 125-156 lb/ft |
| Transmission options | 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic | 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic |
| 0-60 mph (fastest variant) | 7.5 sec (Turbo) | 7.0 sec (V6 LS) |
| Top speed (fastest variant) | 130 mph | 135 mph |
| Curb weight | 2,600-2,900 lbs | 2,650-2,850 lbs |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive |
Source: Mazda
In terms of handling, the MX-6 benefited from Mazda’s renowned engineering, providing sharp and responsive dynamics expected of a sports car. The suspension setup, similar to the Probe’s, struck a balance between ride comfort and sporty handling.
Today, the Mazda MX-6 is also gaining recognition among enthusiasts and collectors as a noteworthy sports car. Its shared lineage with the Probe, coupled with Mazda’s reputation for building engaging vehicles, has contributed to a resurgence in interest in this often-overlooked sports car.
Source: Ford, Mazda, RepairPal, YourMechanic
