What is the Mazda version of the Ford Probe?
The Mazda MX-6 was the Japanese automaker's version of the Ford Probe, a sporty 2+2 coupe that was produced from 1988 to 1997. While the Probe was developed by Ford, Mazda played a significant role in its design and engineering, leading to the creation of the MX-6 as a closely related model.
Origins of the Mazda MX-6
In the mid-1980s, Ford and Mazda entered into a strategic partnership, which led to the development of several shared vehicle platforms and models. One of these collaborative projects was the Ford Probe, a front-wheel-drive sports coupe that was intended to replace the aging Ford Mustang. Mazda was heavily involved in the Probe's design and engineering, as the model was based on the Mazda G platform, which also underpinned the Mazda MX-6.
Similarities Between the Probe and MX-6
The Mazda MX-6 and Ford Probe shared a number of key design elements and mechanical components, including:
- Chassis and suspension architecture
- Engine options, including Mazda's 2.2-liter and 2.5-liter inline-four engines
- Transmission choices, such as a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
- Overall styling and silhouette, with a sleek, aerodynamic coupe body
Despite these similarities, the MX-6 and Probe were not identical twins. Mazda differentiated the MX-6 with unique exterior and interior design cues, as well as some minor mechanical differences to better suit the brand's sporty and performance-oriented image.
The Probe's Influence on the MX-6
The Ford Probe's development and success had a significant impact on the Mazda MX-6. The Probe's popularity and positive reception in the market helped validate the sporty coupe concept, which Mazda then adapted for the MX-6. Additionally, the Probe's strong sales performance in North America provided a template for Mazda to follow with the MX-6, which was also marketed as a more affordable and accessible sports car.
Overall, the Mazda MX-6 was a close relative of the Ford Probe, sharing its underlying platform and many key components. However, Mazda was able to put its own distinctive spin on the design and positioning of the MX-6 to align with the brand's sporty and performance-focused identity.
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What is the Mazda equivalent to the Ford Probe?
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Based on the Mazda MX-6 as a sport compact coupe, the Probe was intended to fill the market niche formerly occupied by the Capri in Europe, and it was originally intended to be the fourth generation Ford Mustang in the North American market as a direct competitor with the Acura Integra, Isuzu Impulse, Nissan 200SX, and ...
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What car was similar to the Ford Probe?
First Place: Ford Probe GT. Geneticists and automakers alike will study the Mazda MX-6 and the Probe GT for years to come. The cars share the same basic building blocks (with the Mazda 626 sedan, too), but like fraternal twins, they've grown up with distinct personalities.
What happened to the Mazda MPV?
The MPV was discontinued in both Europe and North America after model year 2006.
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.
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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 MX6 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.
