Was the Ford Probe supposed to be a Mustang?
The Ford Probe was a sports car produced by Ford from 1988 to 1997, but it was never intended to be a replacement for the iconic Mustang. Despite its sporty appearance, the Probe was actually developed as a joint project between Ford and Mazda, and it shared many of its components with the Mazda MX-6. This led to some confusion and misconceptions about the Probe's purpose and positioning within Ford's lineup.
The Probe's Origins
In the mid-1980s, Ford was looking to develop a new sports car to compete with the growing popularity of Japanese sports coupes like the Mazda RX-7 and Toyota Supra. Rather than designing a new car from scratch, Ford decided to collaborate with Mazda, which had a successful sports car platform in the MX-6. The resulting vehicle was the Ford Probe, which shared much of its underlying architecture and engineering with the Mazda MX-6.
Mistaken for a Mustang
Despite its sporty appearance and Ford branding, the Probe was never intended to replace the Mustang. The Mustang was a long-standing and iconic muscle car, while the Probe was a more compact and fuel-efficient sports coupe. However, many consumers and even some Ford dealers mistakenly believed that the Probe was a new version of the Mustang. This led to some confusion and disappointment among Mustang enthusiasts who were expecting a more powerful and traditional muscle car.
The Probe's Legacy
While the Probe was not the Mustang replacement that some had hoped for, it did have a successful run as a sports car in its own right. The Probe was praised for its handling, performance, and overall driving dynamics, and it found a loyal following among sports car enthusiasts. However, the confusion and misconceptions surrounding the Probe's relationship to the Mustang ultimately contributed to its demise, and Ford discontinued the model in 1997.
Lessons Learned
The story of the Ford Probe serves as a cautionary tale for automakers about the importance of clear branding and positioning. While collaboration and shared platforms can be an effective way to develop new vehicles, it's crucial to ensure that the final product is clearly differentiated and understood by consumers. The Probe's mistaken identity as a Mustang replacement ultimately undermined its success, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of effective communication and marketing in the automotive industry.
Is a Mach 1 a Mustang?
The all-new Mustang Mach 1 is set to become the most track-capable 5.0-liter Mustang ever, courtesy of a newly designed front end, plus Ford Performance parts from Mustang Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT500 models and an available Handling Package for greater at-limit handling.
What is the Ford Probe based on?
Mazda GD platform
The first generation Ford Probe was based on the Mazda GD platform, and was powered by a 2.2 L SOHC 12-valve 4-cylinder Mazda F2 engine.
What was the Mustang almost called?
Then there are stories of the car almost being named the Cougar and other animals, while others insist Mustang was always the plan.
Was the Mustang based on the Ford Falcon?
From 1965 to 1973, the Mustang was derived from the 1960 Ford Falcon compact. From 1974 until 1978, the Mustang (denoted Mustang II) was a longer-wheelbase version of the Ford Pinto.
Does Ford CEO Jim Farley think the Mach-E is actually a Mustang either?
So it came as a bit of a surprise when Ford CEO Jim Farley made a couple of comments to Autocar that suggest he doesn't consider the Mach-E a real Mustang either. "We will never build a Mustang that isn't a Mustang," Farley told Autocar.
Did the Ford Probe have a Mazda engine?
Mazda engineered the engine, transmission, and chassis, while Ford engineered the body and interior. Technically, the second generation Probe is 60% Mazda and 40% Ford. Despite the car being extended and widened 2 in (50 mm) it was 125 pounds (60 kg) lighter than the first generation Probe.
Why did Ford call the Mach E Mustang?
It became readily apparent to the team that this car needed to be a Mustang." They named it Mustang because they wanted to stand out from a large number of similar vehicles in the works from multiple competitors. End of story.
Was the Ford Probe a Mustang?
But a popular uprising from employees and fans ensured the Mustang remained, and instead, the company christened the production-ready vehicle the Ford Probe. The Probe was never a pony car, but rather a sports coupe worthy of a global stage.
What car was supposed to replace the Mustang?
Ford received an avalanche of feedback that persuaded it to continue with the Fox body Mustang, which it did until 1994. So what became of the car that was meant to replace the Mustang? In 1989, it was released as the Ford Probe and sold alongside and in direct competition with the Mustang.
What was the Mustang inspired by?
mighty P-51 fighter plane
Some claim the name was inspired by the mighty P-51 fighter plane from World War II. Others argue it was Ford's market research expert Robert J. Eggert, a lover of horses, who came up with the idea. Either way, “Mustang” was chosen to represent the spirit of the American West and the idea of freedom.
