How much horsepower does a 1989 Ford Probe have?
The 1989 Ford Probe offered two engine options: a 2.2-liter inline-four that produced about 110 horsepower, and a turbocharged 2.2-liter inline-four that produced about 145 horsepower. The exact numbers varied by market and trim, but these figures capture the typical range for that model year.
Engine options and horsepower
Ford’s early Probe lineup centered on a base naturally aspirated engine and a sportier turbo option. The following outlines the two common power outputs you’d encounter in 1989 Probes.
- 2.2-liter inline-4 (naturally aspirated) — approximately 110 horsepower.
- 2.2-liter inline-4 (turbocharged) — approximately 145 horsepower.
In practice, the turbocharged variant offered significantly stronger acceleration and was marketed as the performance model, while the base engine provided everyday usability.
Context and performance details
Torque and acceleration figures varied by model year and transmission choice. The turbo 2.2L typically delivered around 170 lb-ft of torque, contributing to quicker 0-60 mph times (roughly in the 8–9 second range under favorable conditions). The naturally aspirated 2.2L produced modest performance in comparison, prioritizing daily drivability.
Historical significance
The Probe was developed with Mazda input and positioned as a stylish two-door coupe aimed at buyers seeking sporty flair in a compact package. The 1989 lineup laid the groundwork for a brief but notable run through the early 1990s, with the turbo variant serving as the performance highlight.
Summary: For the 1989 Ford Probe, horsepower ranged from about 110 hp in the base 2.2-liter engine to about 145 hp in the turbocharged 2.2-liter option, with variations by market and trim. The turbo model offered the notable performance edge, while the base engine provided conventional daily usability.
