Why did they stop making the Ford Probe?
The Ford Probe, a sporty coupe developed in collaboration between Ford and Mazda, was a popular choice in the late 1980s and early 1990s. However, despite its initial success, production of the Ford Probe ceased in 1997. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind the discontinuation of this once-beloved vehicle.
The Origins of the Ford Probe
The Ford Probe was introduced in 1988 as a replacement for the Ford EXP and as a potential successor to the Ford Mustang. It was developed in partnership with Mazda, utilizing the Mazda GD and GE platforms, which also underpinned the Mazda MX-6 and 626. The Probe was designed to appeal to a younger audience with its sleek, aerodynamic styling and sporty performance.
Why Production of the Ford Probe Ended
Several factors contributed to the decision to stop making the Ford Probe. These include market trends, internal competition, and shifting consumer preferences. Below are the key reasons:
- Declining Sales: By the mid-1990s, sales of the Ford Probe had begun to decline. The sporty coupe market was shrinking as consumers increasingly favored SUVs and sedans, which offered more practicality and space.
- Internal Competition: The Ford Mustang, which the Probe was initially intended to replace, remained highly popular. Ford decided to continue investing in the Mustang, which had a stronger brand identity and a loyal customer base.
- Changing Consumer Preferences: During the 1990s, there was a noticeable shift in consumer preferences toward vehicles with more versatility, such as minivans and SUVs. This trend left sporty coupes like the Probe struggling to maintain their market share.
- Cost of Production: The Probe’s reliance on Mazda platforms and components made it more expensive to produce compared to other Ford models. This reduced its profitability, especially as sales declined.
Ultimately, these factors combined to make the Ford Probe less viable in Ford’s lineup. The company chose to focus its resources on more profitable and popular models, leading to the Probe’s discontinuation in 1997.
The Legacy of the Ford Probe
Although the Ford Probe is no longer in production, it remains a nostalgic favorite among car enthusiasts. Its unique design, sporty handling, and connection to the Mazda partnership make it a standout model in Ford’s history. Today, the Probe is often seen as a collector’s car, cherished by those who appreciate its place in automotive history.
The story of the Ford Probe serves as a reminder of how quickly market dynamics can change in the automotive industry. While it may no longer be on the road in large numbers, the Probe’s legacy lives on in the memories of its fans and in the evolution of Ford’s vehicle lineup.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 all the Ford probes?
Mustang fans objected to the front-wheel drive configuration, Japanese engineering, and lack of a V8, so Ford began work on a new design for the Mustang instead. On March 17, 1997, Ford announced the discontinuation of the Probe.
Was 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. Credit the Probe's wider and taller tires for the improved performance.
What was the major automotive flop for Ford?
The Edsel
The Edsel was supposed to feature innovative technology, such as an advanced push-button transmission and an onboard computer system, but many of these innovations were not as functional or user-friendly as they were advertised to be. As a result, the vehicle failed to impress consumers, leading to poor sales.
How much horsepower does a 1989 Ford Probe have?
The first-generation Probe shared its platform with the Mazda MX-6 (as did the second-gen version), and was offered in the U.S. market with a 110-hp, 2.2-liter naturally aspirated engine as the base offering.
Why did the Ford Probe fail?
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.
What problem did the Ford Model T solve?
The Model T changed the way Americans lived, worked and traveled. Henry Ford's revolutionary advancements in assembly-line automobile manufacturing made the Model T the first car to be affordable for a majority of Americans. In 1908, the Model T sold for $850 while competing cars often cost $2000-$3000.
What's the rarest Ford in the world?
- Ford Anglia Super. The last, and now best known, generation of Ford Anglia was launched in 1959 with a 997cc engine, the first in what is now known as the 'Kent' family.
- Ford Classic.
- Ford Crown Victoria.
- Ford Escort RS 1800.
- Ford Consul Mk1.
- Ford Taurus.
- Ford RS 200.
- Tickford Capri.
Are Ford probes rare?
The first gen Probe is extremely rare to see on the road today. This example is definitely preserved by an enthusiast and it is in pristine condition.
What's the rarest car to find?
Here are six of the rarest cars in the world.
- McLaren F1 LM. The McLaren F1 LM is the fastest and most powerful McLaren ever made一and yes, it was built for the streets instead of the tracks.
- Lamborghini Veneno.
- Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Gullwing”
- Ferrari Testarossa Spider.
- Bugatti La Voiture Noire.
- Ferrari 250 GTO.
