What is the Ford Probe V concept car?
The Ford Probe V concept car was a groundbreaking and futuristic vehicle that showcased the automaker's vision for the future of automotive design. Unveiled in 1989, the Probe V was a bold departure from traditional car designs, offering a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette and a range of innovative features that hinted at the direction the industry was headed.
Sleek and Aerodynamic Design
The Probe V's most striking feature was its sleek, aerodynamic design. The car's low, sloping roofline and smooth, sculpted body panels were designed to minimize drag and improve fuel efficiency. The car's front end featured a distinctive, wedge-shaped profile that gave it a futuristic, almost alien-like appearance. The Probe V's design was a clear departure from the boxy, angular designs that were common at the time, and it set the stage for the more streamlined, aerodynamic cars that would become increasingly popular in the years to come.
Innovative Features
In addition to its striking design, the Probe V also featured a range of innovative features that were ahead of their time. These included:
- A rear-mounted engine for improved weight distribution and handling
- A retractable rear spoiler that could be deployed at high speeds to improve stability and downforce
- A unique "floating" dashboard design that allowed the driver to have a clear, unobstructed view of the road ahead
- Advanced electronic systems, including a heads-up display and a voice-activated control system
These features were not just for show – they were designed to improve the Probe V's performance, efficiency, and overall driving experience. The car's innovative design and features were a clear indication of Ford's commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive technology and design.
Legacy and Impact
While the Probe V never made it to production, its impact on the automotive industry was significant. The car's sleek, aerodynamic design and innovative features would go on to influence the design of many production vehicles in the years that followed. The Probe V's legacy can be seen in the more streamlined, efficient cars that have become increasingly common on our roads today.
Overall, the Ford Probe V concept car was a bold and visionary vehicle that offered a glimpse into the future of automotive design. Its innovative features and striking appearance set the stage for the more advanced and efficient cars that would become increasingly common in the decades to come.
Did the Ford Probe have a Mazda engine?
As with any car built on the 1988-1992 GD platform, the 1989 Ford Probe comes with Mazda's 2.2-liter four-cylinder F2 engine. The powertrain has only a single overhead camshaft and features two intake valves and one exhaust valve per cylinder for a total of 12 valves.
Why did Ford discontinue the Probe?
So why was the Probe ultimately discontinued? It boiled down to poor sales. By 1997, the Probe's final year, Ford sold less than 20,000 units compared to 108,000 Mustangs. Ford did such a poor job of positioning and marketing the Probe it was almost destined to fail.
Is the Mazda MX-6 a Ford Probe?
The Mazda MX-6 is a front-engine, front-wheel-drive coupé manufactured and marketed by Mazda from 1987 to 1997 across two generations. Mechanically identical to the Ford Probe, the Capella/626 and its hatchback platform mate, the Ford Telstar, these cars shared the GD (1988–1992) and GE (1993–1997) platforms.
What Ford Probe concept car reportedly burned to the ground in Monterey on Sunday?
Unfortunately, disaster struck on Sunday when the wedge-shaped 1979 Ford Probe I Ghia concept car, which is owned by the Scott Grundfor Company, was destroyed in a fire while leaving the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.
What does the MX stand for in Mazda?
Mazda eXperimental
Short for “Mazda eXperimental”, the MX name was first used in 1981 for an out-there concept styled by Italian design house Bertone. Debuted at the Tokyo motor show, the MX-81 Aria was based on the contemporary 323, but had a wedge-shaped body designed by Marc Dechamps with a wedge-shaped body and large glasshouse.
Is the Ford Probe fast?
The Probe hit 60 mph in 7.0 seconds, 0.2 quicker than the MX-6. Its quarter-mile clocking of 15.5 seconds at 89 mph also edges out the MX-6's 15.6-second/88-mph performance. And the Probe's 133-mph top speed is 4 mph faster than the MX-6's.
Is the Mazda MX-6 rare?
As a result, only a handful of MX-6s were ever produced (as opposed to the MX-5 Miata, which hit its 1M-mark last year). Unfortunately, many MX-6s have either ended up in junkyards or heavily modified, making it tough to find a well-preserved one with all of its original parts.
How much is a 1991 Ford Probe worth?
The value of a used 1991 Ford Probe ranges from $1,377 to $8,321, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
Why did they stop the Mazda 6?
One of the main reasons why the Mazda6 was discontinued was a shift in consumer preferences. The demand for midsize sedans decreased as the public became more interested in crossovers and SUVs because of their increased ground clearance and cargo space.
What is the Ford Probe equivalent to?
As before, the Probe was to share its under-structure with Mazda's MX-6 and 626. Mazda engineered the engine, transmission, and chassis, while Ford engineered the body and interior.
