@@DB-bk9tr not really by comparison. The Mopar were straight Mitsubishi rebadges (Colt, Challenger, Sapporo, etc) as was the 2.6 I4, 3.0 V6, 2.5 V6. The heaviest actual engineering influence on Chrysler passenger cars was under Daimler.
The second generation probe gt's were really nice looking cars. Always liked the way the looks, very japanese styled with out actually being Japanese, ford did a great job on that generation.
@@mjbl1787 don't remember that, I bought a 96 gt brand new and the doors were long. Maybe the back seat was hard to get into but not the front, I never had to ride n the back so Maybe.
I loved my 97gt. I remember pulling into a gas station and some kids were in-love with it and had no clue the Ford probe existed. Not to mention it was quite fast and handled pretty amazingly as well
That’s cool that you did a video on the Probe. I still have mine 23 years later after buying it as my first car. It turns more heads today than it did back in the 90’s.
I purchased a 1989 Probe brand new in bright blue. Build quality was excellent and the base 2.2 liter at 110 hp provided plenty of performance mated to the manual 5-speed transmission, all while getting 30+ mpg on the highway. I passed the car on to my son who drove it throughout high school and college. We finally donated it to a group that teaches young people how to work on cars. If they were still offered today I would buy another one in a heartbeat.
Great info for the younger viewers. I was one of those that wrote to Ford asking them to keep the Mustang a V8 rwd car. The Mazdas were nice, I actually considered a Mazda MX6 for my wife, but bought my 87 Mustang 5.0 to make sure I got a new V8!
@@larryroyovitz7829 I work on so many cars. Alot of the 3s I get (2nd gen or after are holding up so well. My sisters 2 has 160k, and needed nothing major yet. Or anything that isnt wear or tear for that matter
I'd like to correct 'My Old Car' here and mention that the original Mazda 3s are actually 2nd Generation Ford Focus underneath. We never got them in the U.S. as a Focus, but we did get the Mazda 3, Volvo C30, S40 and V50 on that same platform. And really, when you get underneath it, it's a slightly bigger, revised 1st Gen Focus, which we did get plenty of. The Mazda 6 was also Euro-Ford instead of their own. In 2000, Ford Europe came out with the 3rd Generation Mondeo. The 6 came out in 2003 on the same platform, the North American Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan following shortly thereafter. So, I can understand an American commentator's assumption that the 6 was the platform originator, but the reality is Ford was relying heavily on its European arm to develop chassis by then. The Contour was on the previous generation Mondeo platform... So, the Contour was really the start of giving their European platforms a try in North America, and soon those platforms got incorporated into Mazda's lineup along with Volvo's. So, really, we have Ford Europe to thank for these great cars. And I mean that. I think the first generation 3, 6, Fusion etc are truly good cars. Great handling chassis, reliable engines that make decent power, decent interiors and features. Very solid cars. I still think that first Gen 6 is a fantastic-looking car to this day. Better than the 6s that came after it.
@@Motochick203 the worst one was the 94 626’s that had the Ford transmissions. They fixed it quickly though. My mom had one that went through 3 transmissions under warranty until they got a different car.
@@baronvonjo1929 GM reliability is fine don't believe the hype from haters. Owned Camaros, Iroc, Z28, Lumina Z34, Cavalier Z24 and Monte Carlo SS never an ounce of trouble from any of them in over 40 years of ownership....so tired of people busting on American cars... 🖕You all who do!
2nd generation was a really nice car.The GT with the 5 speed performed really well for the day and looked sporty.I sold them back then and after the 1st year they fell off the map and we got stuck with a couple of them.
I had a 1989 Probe GT (white with red interior). I loved that car. Despite the 145 hp rating, it made a lot more than that. I had no trouble keeping up with the 190 hp Eclipse turbos. The second-gen car was sweet looking and that V6 was silky smooth, but it wasn't nearly as fast.
Ha ha ha! I love the Star Trek clip at the end! Perfect close to the video! Huge Trekkie and big fan of your channel. These are all cars from my era! I would love to see a video on the Pontiac 6000. My first car was an 84 6000 STE. Wish I still had that car. Keep up the awesome videos.
I love that your videos are about cars most people actually owned. How about doing a video of the entry level versions of cars people got (like 4 cylinder mustangs and camaros) instead of the car they wanted but couldn't afford Mustang Shelby GT or Chevy Camaro IROC Z. I wanted a Porsche -I drove a Karmann Ghia.
I had a friend in college that had a Ford Probe that he put a body kit on, did a tune on the engine, replaced the computer for a high end output, and put in raving seats. We nicknamed it Anal out of spite.
Your channel is great, keep it up! Probes are cool on their own. Although I heard from friends that own them, that there were a lot of nagging interior electronic issues with their vehicles.
Just wanted to say I love your channel. This is the content I have been looking for. Learning about the cars I used to see throughout my childhood is just amazing and nostalgic. These videos are very informative and my cup of tea. Keep up the great work and god bless you.
Great video. Please do a video on the Mazda 323 also known as the Ford Laser in Australia. I leaned how to drive on 2003 Mazda 323. Great car with a user friendly gear box for a learner and the car felt really well made. The Ford Laser like the 323 sold very well in Australia for years .
i had a 94 gt probe a few years back as a little work beater.... It was a great little car, honestly surprised me with how nice it was to drive. It was VERY clean and in great shape, got it for 1100 bucks.... it was a steal lol. drove it for 4 years, and it never gave me any trouble, only lost it bc I was t-boned by a full size conversion van and it was beyond repair.
My 93 got wrecked back in 01. 9 years later I had to have another one. 2 week search and I found my 94 GT which I still have today. It's been 12 years.
The worst car I ever owned was a 1980 Pontiac Phoenix... one of the horrendous GM X-Cars. I think that was the nadir of automotive manufacturing in America. I replaced the Phoenix with a 1980 Honda Accord and it was light years ahead in quality. The best car I drove in the 80s/90s era had to be my 1990 Honda Civic Wagon. 5-speed manual with that peppy engine that got 35 to 40 MPG. The most fun car I had in the 90s/00s were two Dodge Neons. If it wasn't for an unfortunate head gasket issue, ownership would have been great. They were inexpensive, economical, yet still a blast to drive fast. Quality still wasn't up to Honda standards but it was what I could afford at that time. In 2004, I purchased a low milage 1991 Acura Legend. That was a great car with a powerful engine. I finally had the luxury car experience and I really enjoyed it. These videos are a fun walk down memory lane. When you are young, having a car meant freedom and independence.
Had a 90 Ford Probe. Great car actually…had it from 98-03. Had 140k when I bought it for $2800. Finally the engine went at 208k. Miss that car. Had a digital dash that looked pretty cool. Can’t even find a late model (95-97) for a decent price anymore.
It’s not that old but if you could do one on the Hyundai Tiburon, my husband had an 06 with all the bells and whistles and we loved it. We got rid of it once he lost his job a few years ago. It was bright yellow and an absolute joy to drive.
Brought a new 89 Probe LX after graduating from college and getting a real job. Paid about $12k and thought I got a deal. Cool exterior design, pop up lights, futuristic interior with the dimming opera lights... I thought I was the shit! LOL
I had an 85 Toyota Tercel, which I loved. I got 45 mpg, and could load all my gear to do shows (I was a mobile DJ). Sold that car with 250K miles, and still miss it. I'd love to see a video on that.
I just found your channel and I’ve enjoyed everything so far. On this one, the Star Trek 4 clip at the end is PERFECT. Hearing of a car named Probe is exactly what came to mind😃
First off, I absolutely love this channel and the videos are fantastic. Great work all around. I'm not sure where the idea that Mazda has struggled since parting with Ford comes from though. I watch alot of Kirk Kriefels channel and he breaks down the quarterly reports for all the Japanese automakers. Mazda is definitely not struggling, they have been smashing year over year sales and even set records during the pandemic. The CX-5 sells like absolute hotcakes. They have moved into the premium sub-luxury space that companies like Buick used to occupy. With their new inline six rear drive platform they are really aiming up-market. They have also partnered with Toyota on hybrid development and opened a joint Toyota-Mazda US manufacturing plant this year where they are building the new CX-50, which I tend to think will sell very well here. It's like an upscale Subaru Forester.
Great video when I first saw the Ford probe at Toronto's car show I thought it was pretty nice looking car especially the gt version. But was happy it never replaced the Mustang, and honestly think if Ford did loose the Mustang all together they would be out of business now?
@@andrefecteau morning from Hamilton Ontario Canada Andre I'm Peter I agree the F-150 is Ford's bread and butter as they say and how I wish that I was able to drive again. I can't drive anymore because I'm a stroke and cardiac arrest survivor and use a cane for balance when I'm outside walking around and there is a risk of having sezures which is a side effect from the stroke. (At least in my case) stay safe
@@vassa1972 I wish you the best. I'm driving a walker myself after a stroke. Do your therapy, it helps...a little. Yeah it sucks. The maker of my walker is "Drive".
Cool, thanks for doing this one. You've done 3 of my old cars so far. The Pontiac 6000 and Cutlass Calais were 2 others I owned. Both were shared platforms with other GM cars. So, maybe a Chevy Celebrity or Pontiac Grand Am episode.
Owned em all! Probe, 626, mx6, 99 cougar. Loved every one of those cars. The late 80s/early 90s turbo cars were really quick with a manual transmission.
I saw the concept version of this car when they launched the Tempo/Topaz. It was love at first sight. I eventually ended up with an MX6. They were amazing cars.
8:52 Hope you're wrong on that. Mazda's global sales were down in 2020, mostly in Europe but in North America they held on which is pretty good considering the pandemic. North American sales are also currently up 45% YTD compared to same period last year. I think their partnership with Toyota (and associated electrification) will help.
The 90's Probe GT made my '90 5.0/5 speed LX look old and hoary, but when the light turned green and my foot went down, it was no match. This is for 5.0 Stang owners who want better performance: #1: Swap out the stock 3.08 pinion gear with a 3.73. Huge difference and the 5 speed's tall OD makes this the ideal ratio on the hwy, ending the constant 5th to 4th downshifting at 60-70 mph to pass a car. Around town, it feels 50 hp stronger. Don't forget to change the speedo gear! The 5.0 responds to the same mods as every V-8 does. Open exhausts, tuned headers, underdrive pulleys, larger fuel injection, more spark advance, etc. all add more hp. The stock 5.0 exhaust manifolds are pretty good, durable and quiet. Notice I didn't mention changing the camshaft until now. By the time you add it up; 16 pushrods, valves, valve springs, water pump, rocker arms, head porting, valve guides etc. it's big bucks. The stock valve train is quite reliable and maintenance free. The gear driven (no chain!) cam pulls strong to 5500 rpm's and will last the life of your engine. I paid 6K for mine, it was 3 years old. I drove it hard, kept it 9 years and sold it with 172k on the clock for $1500. The motor was still strong, but the car was beat. I had some great times in that 'Stang! Spock out.
How about doing a history of the Ford LTD history? This was a great vid bybthe way. ALLLLLL of these vids you have done are! I've watched every single one. 😉
In Europe we also had the fourth generation Ford Fiesta which was sold as a Mazda 121 as well. They didn't even try making them look different. Literally the same car with different badging. They even received the same facelift. They were produced alongside the Fiesta by Ford in Germany and in the UK.
Great video! I had a '97 dodge avenger. I feel it was a similar car. It looked super cool but has horrible reliability issues, which is why I only buy Toyota cars today. Would love a video on it though!
You don't know what you're talking about. When Ford began the Probe project...as a Mustang replacement....petroleum industry analysts were predicting that the cost of gas in the late 80s was going to rise to $5/gal. That would be $9/gallon in today's money. Had it actually happened, Ford would not be able to give away 5.0 Mustangs. As it turned out, gas prices dropped, the demand for V8 Mustangs was strong so Ford renamed the Mustang replacement and axed the EXP, which was a nasty little car. Smart move on Ford's part. What eventually killed the Probe is what eventually killed off nearly all front-drive sport coupes, an aging population, suffering from obesity that wanted all-wheel drive SUV/CUVs. As for the Crown Vic, its basic design went back to 1979, the car could no longer meet DOT regs. There is very little demand in the US for traditional body on frame, rear-drive sedans. A new Crown Vic design would never have made back its design costs.
I currently own a 90 probe! GL 5 speed with manual windows and locks lol. I’ve driven it for 4 years now as a college/work car and put over 60k on it and never had a problem with it currently at 240k. One of the most fun cars I’ve ever had. Great one gas and gets a lot of compliments looks to this day. My dad used to have a 89 lx with the digital dash and power everything what a cool car that was.
The first Probe was a game changer. The wrap around rear dark window on a white body was breathtaking. This is back when new cars were still the 'wheels on a square box' look from the 70s.
My first car was a 2006 Mazda 6 V6 Fully loaded grey with a spoiler it handled so well and it flewwww I actually loved that car and really miss it. I had to give it up when going to college. I’m looking and thinking about getting another Mazda I love them
The Probe and MX-6, particularly the second generation cars, were stunning to look at when they came out. After nearly a decade and a half of Giugiaro-inspired boxes, the cars looked very fresh and sleek. I thought the Probe GT with that 2.5 V6 would have been an excellent replacement for my 20+ year old Firebird, which was rotting badly and had no a/c. Mazda remains an underrated brand to this day; my 88 Ranger had a Mazda five speed that never gave me any trouble, and my 2001 Miata remains the most reliable car I've ever owned.
I used to own a black 95 Probe GT with the 2.5L KL-DE V6 and a 5 speed manual transmission. It was a great car, except for the tendency for white knuckle driving on wet roads. I'm not sure if it was the design of the car, or the tires, but it was flat out scary during moderate to heavy rains, I could feel traction breaking loose quite often. On dry roads, it cornered like it was on rails. The engine also had a almost VTEC like sudden increase in HP at around 4,500 rpms when the VRIS kicked in. Engine is very well built. It survived an "Jiffy Lube" mishap when the wrong threaded oil filter was put on the engine, causing it to fall off down the road, starving the engine of oil.
I had a 94 white GT, and even though it was an automatic it was still a pretty fun car with excellent handling, great gas mileage and a lot of versatility with that big hatchback. Very reliable as well. And I look back now 20+ years later and it really has aged much better than a lot of cars of that generation. I've been trying to find a clean and unabused second gen up here in Canada and it's basically impossible. That boysenberry color is beautiful. And I think they even made kind of a peach colored one which looks pretty wild with the chrome swirly wheels. If you get a chance out there to find a clean one, I would grab it!
I bought a 1995 Probe SE in 2014 for $1200. It was an Oregon car so the body was in great shape. That is except for rust beginning around the windshield. Fun little car. I sold it for $300 5 years later. It was leaking oil, radiator fluid, and trans fluid.
1994 probe gt 5spd here... 220,000 and had it since new...its been a daily driver and my only car for the last 27yrs... also the Only new car ive ever owned...been decent, lots of issues over time but Ive tackled them all..if you cant do ur own repairs, this is Not the car for you! fun to drive but is so eclipsed by almost Any of todays cars as far as performance and handling..was good in its day but cars nowadays are many levels above this ...what it is cool for is to feel the nostalgia of a naturally aspirated, 100% analog car with road feel, good seating, nice cockpit and a sweet sounding engine, though no longer fast today, it Still sounds better than most cars on the market as it races to redline...And it has looks that are Unique in a world of lookalike clones..I still walk away and look back at it when I park it!
Great video. Regarding the name, besides the concept cars, it was also closely linked to the Mustang name. There was a racecar in IMSA GTP called the 'Mustang Probe GTP' in 1985 and 1986. Not sure if true, but I heard that when it was slated to carry the Mustang name, they planned to put the top model as the Mustang Probe. So the name carried over easily.
My Grandmother (ex-Ford Employee) owned a first gen Probe GT in Michigan and thinking it would be a future classic she stored it in a shed in the upper peninsula of Michigan. I checked the car out about two years ago and could tell the car was in poor condition because of the salted roads and she recently sold it (Spring 2021) for $800. As it was pulled out of the shed (must of been in there 25 years) it was very rusty and the floor pan was falling out. Possible parts car I suppose. It was a VERY cool and fun car to drive when new and the car magazines at the time called it the best FWD car to date.
In the early 90's I ended up renting one of these (gen 2) for a week when I was traveling for work. I remember this car was a blast to drive (even though it had an automatic transmission). Many years later I ended up buying a gen 2 Miata - with an even greater fun factor.
I worked at the Mazda plant from the start. Mazda did buy the site of the Michigan castings plant but did not tool it for production. A new plant was built there next to the old plant. About 10 years some minor production was done at the old plant.
My cousin had a 2nd gen GT and it was a cool looking car, I still think it holds up today. It really needed a stronger engine though. Too often companies make "sports" cars on looks alone but advertise them racing down a highway but they never deliver on that and people look elsewhere, and sales tank.
The first car I ever purchased with a five speed. I had a base 2.2 model where if you saw one come up behind you at night, it had the exact same light pattern as the Porsche 944. Also it's gauge cluster was connected to the steering wheel just as the Porsche 928!
I had a Mazda GLC because I thought I needed an economy car, traded it in on a Mazda 626 because i really liked the looks and it was a great car the 9 years I drove it. I traded it in on a new 1989 Ford Probe. Loved that car, pretty quick for what it had for an engine and got 40 mpg more than once on long road trips. Didn't have some of the querks some front drive cars had like torque steer when standing on the gas leaving a stop light. Then traded it in on a 1997 Mustang GT and it was a very good car also, loved the exhaust note. Traded it in on a 2003 BMW Z4 that we are still driving today.
The first one I saw was gold and thought it was gonna be a competitor to Supras, Z and Rx7. Eventually finding out it was just a sporty car. I always liked the Eagle Talon TSI the best.
I really love your channel, but if I can make one suggestion: would you consider using different music tracks on different videos or even no music? I just went through 3 of your videos and by the third it was hard to make it through due to the repetitiveness of the same looping music track used in every video. Hopefully you don’t take this as a knock on the quality of your content, it’s great! Just something to consider as your channel continues to grow.
I worked at a wholesale car auction in 1995 and the current for the time Probe and Contour felt like the same exact car when you drove them. The Contour in Europe was called the Mondeo. Too bad Ford didn’t import the Escort Cosworth to the US because besides being a good performer it looked really cool.
Heres my take. When Porche did the same thing in 2002 with they Cayenne the porche fans said the same thing, in fact they still are 19 years later, "blasfamy its not a real porche!!! Suv noooo! Sacreligous!!!!" Meanwhile it did nothing to dilute the porche brand or the rest of their lineup. The mach e is a mustang the same way the Cayenne is a Porche. Still fast still cool. Deal with it.
@@Henry_Jones maybe it’s fast, but it’s only cool if you’re a soccer mom that wants to tell all her friends she’s got a Mustang. It’s not a cool car, and it’s ugly as shit
As a teen in the 90s I wanted a probe cause I thought they were cool looking but after owning a Ford previously I passed. I wound up getting a eclipse and loved that car.
I really enjoy your videos. Can I suggest Isuzu passenger vehicles in America? O feel they're largely forgotten but they had quirky stuff like the Space Cab and Impulse.
was John Colletti at SVT that really saved the Mustang in 94...he started the whole "write in campaign"...bought a new GT/5.0 in 94, a fantastic Mustang compared to the older generations when they finally put a decent suspension and brakes on it..with Mach460 stereo it ruled...back then
My old cars: 81' Ford Bronco, 82' Ford Granada, 84' Honda Accord, 89' Honda Prelude S, 97' Acura RL, 98' Chevy Monte Carlo 3.8, & 🥁 09' Jetta SportWagen! 🏁
I had been working as a mechanic at the Ford dealer since 1983 when Ford surprised us with the Probe in 1988. I say "surprised" because at least a year before a new model is released or a major change is made to an existing model, at least one mechanic is offered new model training for that vehicle. Repair manuals and special tools are sent to each dealer well in advance so the service department can become familiar with the car before its release. None of that preceded the Probe. I do remember getting the shop manuals a couple of months before the dealership received its first Probe. Afterward, Ford continued sending out updates to place inside the service manuals; especially for the wiring diagrams. Ford/Mazda must have printed the wiring diagrams long before they built the car because there were at least 20 updates for us to insert into the shop manuals. This was long before computers when updates to shop manuals were a pain in the a$$.
I am one of the many Ford Mustang loyalists that wrote to Ford and told them how horrible a mistake it would be to kill the Mustang.They actually wrote me back like 5yrs later thanking me (us) letter writing loyalists for voicing our opinion and saving the Mustang! That seems to get left out in a lot of these documentaries involving the Probe.
Didn’t know that Ford Probe was in Back to the Future. But we didn’t get Ford Probe in Sweden. Here we had Ford Sierra. So I have never seen a Ford Probe. But my first car was a Mazda 626. We did get Ford Cougars here but I haven’t seen one for years.
Ford should have brought back the Probe name and used it for the Mustang electric suv
Indeed, I don't think anyone considers that vehicle a "Mustang."
100% Ford ruined the Mustang legacy by doing this!!
Nah they should of never made that electric suv in the first place.
💯
@@MultiRokusho shareholders needed those
Wish more people knew that Mazda was behind lots of ford products in the day
Mitsubishi was behind a lot of Chrysler. Suzuki behind a lot of cheap Chevys
We all knew, we just didn't like to talk about it.
@Lukas zzstu Sikorski I SAID WE DON'T TALK ABOUT IT!!!
@@DB-bk9tr not really by comparison. The Mopar were straight Mitsubishi rebadges (Colt, Challenger, Sapporo, etc) as was the 2.6 I4, 3.0 V6, 2.5 V6. The heaviest actual engineering influence on Chrysler passenger cars was under Daimler.
Well actually Mazda, Volvo, Landover, Jaguar. Ford has a niche to work with the best over sea brands.
The second generation probe gt's were really nice looking cars. Always liked the way the looks, very japanese styled with out actually being Japanese, ford did a great job on that generation.
they were a bitch getting in an out of though
@@mjbl1787 don't remember that, I bought a 96 gt brand new and the doors were long. Maybe the back seat was hard to get into but not the front, I never had to ride n the back so Maybe.
I totally agree, it was my dream car when I was turning 16.
I loved my 97gt. I remember pulling into a gas station and some kids were in-love with it and had no clue the Ford probe existed. Not to mention it was quite fast and handled pretty amazingly as well
I liked the 1st gen better.
That’s cool that you did a video on the Probe. I still have mine 23 years later after buying it as my first car. It turns more heads today than it did back in the 90’s.
What year and trim?
@@altima119487 1993 GT
@@sandonlettieri7218 nice 👍
I was working at a Ford dealer when these came out. Back then these were looked at as exotic and very cool.
And your sales fell through the toilet.
@@dannysdailys actually the Probe was quite popular on the sales front.
@@chrisherman7531 I remember them too. That mecs system 🤢 with a star tester.
There’s a guy in my neighborhood who has one and I smile when I see it!
I also worked at a ford dealership, we thought the opposite.
I purchased a 1989 Probe brand new in bright blue. Build quality was excellent and the base 2.2 liter at 110 hp provided plenty of performance mated to the manual 5-speed transmission, all while getting 30+ mpg on the highway. I passed the car on to my son who drove it throughout high school and college. We finally donated it to a group that teaches young people how to work on cars. If they were still offered today I would buy another one in a heartbeat.
I always thought the Probe was a nice looking car. I bought my daughter one when she got her drivers license, she loved it.
Great info for the younger viewers. I was one of those that wrote to Ford asking them to keep the Mustang a V8 rwd car. The Mazdas were nice, I actually considered a Mazda MX6 for my wife, but bought my 87 Mustang 5.0 to make sure I got a new V8!
Thank you! I had bought Probes, but I love the Mustang that I have now more. I am on my 3rd.
Thanks for helping save the mustang
Thanks for being part of the people who SAVED the Mustang model! 🙏🏼
Awesome job brother
I wrote as well..We did it!!!
i owned a 93 probe SE amazing car so much fun and looked and still looks amazing to this day
My wife thinks I'm odd because I could watch videos like this all day long.
I’ve owned 5 Mazda’s, literally best cars I’ve ever owned. Mazda is actually doing great in 2021
Ya, they're doing better. I'd put them maybe in third place in Japan and maybe even the world behind Toyota and Honda.
I had a Mazda 6 from 2007-19. Definitely one of the best cars I have had.
@@larryroyovitz7829 I work on so many cars. Alot of the 3s I get (2nd gen or after are holding up so well. My sisters 2 has 160k, and needed nothing major yet. Or anything that isnt wear or tear for that matter
I'd like to correct 'My Old Car' here and mention that the original Mazda 3s are actually 2nd Generation Ford Focus underneath. We never got them in the U.S. as a Focus, but we did get the Mazda 3, Volvo C30, S40 and V50 on that same platform. And really, when you get underneath it, it's a slightly bigger, revised 1st Gen Focus, which we did get plenty of.
The Mazda 6 was also Euro-Ford instead of their own. In 2000, Ford Europe came out with the 3rd Generation Mondeo. The 6 came out in 2003 on the same platform, the North American Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan following shortly thereafter. So, I can understand an American commentator's assumption that the 6 was the platform originator, but the reality is Ford was relying heavily on its European arm to develop chassis by then.
The Contour was on the previous generation Mondeo platform... So, the Contour was really the start of giving their European platforms a try in North America, and soon those platforms got incorporated into Mazda's lineup along with Volvo's. So, really, we have Ford Europe to thank for these great cars. And I mean that. I think the first generation 3, 6, Fusion etc are truly good cars. Great handling chassis, reliable engines that make decent power, decent interiors and features. Very solid cars.
I still think that first Gen 6 is a fantastic-looking car to this day. Better than the 6s that came after it.
My first car was a Mazda. Had it for years. Great car. Probably still would have it but the rust got to bad.
Mazda is a fabulous underrated brand!
I would love to see a video on Pontiac solstice/Saturn Sky
JUNK. My first car was a 626... and the transmissions were terrible
@@Motochick203 the worst one was the 94 626’s that had the Ford transmissions. They fixed it quickly though. My mom had one that went through 3 transmissions under warranty until they got a different car.
Solstice was my favorite car as a child because of Transformers lol. Still would love one but dont trust GM reliability.
@@baronvonjo1929 GM reliability is fine don't believe the hype from haters. Owned Camaros, Iroc, Z28, Lumina Z34, Cavalier Z24 and Monte Carlo SS never an ounce of trouble from any of them in over 40 years of ownership....so tired of people busting on American cars... 🖕You all who do!
Mitsubishi was an under rated brand until they dropped the evo....then they really didn't deserve any attention.
The entire Ford Escort lineage honestly would be a terrific video.
2nd generation was a really nice car.The GT with the 5 speed performed really well for the day and looked sporty.I sold them back then and after the 1st year they fell off the map and we got stuck with a couple of them.
I had a 1989 Probe GT (white with red interior). I loved that car. Despite the 145 hp rating, it made a lot more than that. I had no trouble keeping up with the 190 hp Eclipse turbos. The second-gen car was sweet looking and that V6 was silky smooth, but it wasn't nearly as fast.
Ha ha ha! I love the Star Trek clip at the end! Perfect close to the video! Huge Trekkie and big fan of your channel. These are all cars from my era! I would love to see a video on the Pontiac 6000. My first car was an 84 6000 STE. Wish I still had that car. Keep up the awesome videos.
I love that your videos are about cars most people actually owned. How about doing a video of the entry level versions of cars people got (like 4 cylinder mustangs and camaros) instead of the car they wanted but couldn't afford Mustang Shelby GT or Chevy Camaro IROC Z. I wanted a Porsche -I drove a Karmann Ghia.
I worked at the flat rock Michigan plant in the late 80s as these cars were launched. Very informative video. Thanks.
I had a friend in college that had a Ford Probe that he put a body kit on, did a tune on the engine, replaced the computer for a high end output, and put in raving seats. We nicknamed it Anal out of spite.
These videos are becoming part of my Saturday morning routine. I enjoy the trips down memory lane. Thanks for making them!
I once owned a 97 Ford Contour. I would love to see a video about that car.
Me too.I had a V6 Contour Sport with a 5 speed manual and it was one of my favorite cars
Most people have never heard of the contour svt
Great car. My wife got the 98 Contour SVT for her first new car. Loved it.
The European Mondeo, "world car".
Your channel is great, keep it up! Probes are cool on their own. Although I heard from friends that own them, that there were a lot of nagging interior electronic issues with their vehicles.
Not really
I must say I like your channel and how you do average cars from 80’s and 90’s very informative takes me back even saw some of my old ones 👍🏻👍🏻
I owned a Renault/Eagle Medallion. I would love to see a segment featuring that.
Was it reliable?
my buddy had a renault GTA back in the 90's & DAMN that thing was a go-cart
Agreed. The whole amc Renault Chrysler story is very interesting.
@@JeremyBlant that’s true.
@@runforit4203 the 21 was very, very reliable. Not sure if the Medallion olds up to that but the 21 was very sturdy and reliable.
I'd love to see one on the Tempo/Topez.
Same
A great car everyone seems to have forgotten. Get asked what it is all the time when i take mine out.
Don't forget the Escort either!
@Omar T It's because parts are extremely hard to find for these cars. Everything's mostly discontinued. Such as the entire rear drum assembly.
I had a 1988 Tempo GL two door with a five speed and it was a seriously fun car. It was one of them best cars I ever had.
I owned a 91 Probe GT. White with red interior. I loved that car. It was my first brand new car. Thanks for making this video.
Just wanted to say I love your channel. This is the content I have been looking for. Learning about the cars I used to see throughout my childhood is just amazing and nostalgic. These videos are very informative and my cup of tea. Keep up the great work and god bless you.
Great video. Please do a video on the Mazda 323 also known as the Ford Laser in Australia. I leaned how to drive on 2003 Mazda 323. Great car with a user friendly gear box for a learner and the car felt really well made. The Ford Laser like the 323 sold very well in Australia for years .
i had a 94 gt probe a few years back as a little work beater.... It was a great little car, honestly surprised me with how nice it was to drive. It was VERY clean and in great shape, got it for 1100 bucks.... it was a steal lol. drove it for 4 years, and it never gave me any trouble, only lost it bc I was t-boned by a full size conversion van and it was beyond repair.
My 93 got wrecked back in 01. 9 years later I had to have another one. 2 week search and I found my 94 GT which I still have today. It's been 12 years.
There was also the Mazda "Navaho" which was essentially a 1st generation Ford Explorer Sport (the 2 door model).
Navajo
I owned a 93 Probe GT. My first V6. It was heaven like! My brother was working at Ford at the time.
The worst car I ever owned was a 1980 Pontiac Phoenix... one of the horrendous GM X-Cars. I think that was the nadir of automotive manufacturing in America. I replaced the Phoenix with a 1980 Honda Accord and it was light years ahead in quality. The best car I drove in the 80s/90s era had to be my 1990 Honda Civic Wagon. 5-speed manual with that peppy engine that got 35 to 40 MPG. The most fun car I had in the 90s/00s were two Dodge Neons. If it wasn't for an unfortunate head gasket issue, ownership would have been great. They were inexpensive, economical, yet still a blast to drive fast. Quality still wasn't up to Honda standards but it was what I could afford at that time. In 2004, I purchased a low milage 1991 Acura Legend. That was a great car with a powerful engine. I finally had the luxury car experience and I really enjoyed it. These videos are a fun walk down memory lane. When you are young, having a car meant freedom and independence.
Enjoy your videos. Thank you. Ideas for future episodes: Pontiac Grand Prix 2+2, Monte Carlo SS, Oldsmobile Hurst Olds (83-84), 442 (85-87).
Had a 90 Ford Probe. Great car actually…had it from 98-03. Had 140k when I bought it for $2800. Finally the engine went at 208k. Miss that car. Had a digital dash that looked pretty cool. Can’t even find a late model (95-97) for a decent price anymore.
Had a 91 v6 as my first car. Was a lovely car. Tricked it out and it was pretty damn quick actually
Love the channel, great work everytime. Maybe a video on the Mercury cougar? I had a 99 and loved that car. Never should have gotten rid of it.
It’s not that old but if you could do one on the Hyundai Tiburon, my husband had an 06 with all the bells and whistles and we loved it. We got rid of it once he lost his job a few years ago. It was bright yellow and an absolute joy to drive.
Brought a new 89 Probe LX after graduating from college and getting a real job. Paid about $12k and thought I got a deal. Cool exterior design, pop up lights, futuristic interior with the dimming opera lights... I thought I was the shit! LOL
Wow, when you mentioned the Ford EXP I realized I haven't though about that car in forever!
I had an 85 Toyota Tercel, which I loved. I got 45 mpg, and could load all my gear to do shows (I was a mobile DJ). Sold that car with 250K miles, and still miss it. I'd love to see a video on that.
That was a great car
I just found your channel and I’ve enjoyed everything so far. On this one, the Star Trek 4 clip at the end is PERFECT. Hearing of a car named Probe is exactly what came to mind😃
Most underrated automotive history channel on youtube
I am the first owner of a 89 probe . Still looks and runs like new. Have thought of selling it but everytime I drive it I want to keep it.
Hope you kept it
@@emmcee476 Yes, still have it.
Great content once again, you definitely do your research
This channel is endlessly entertaining.
I absolutely love your channel and old videos. You do a very very good job!!
Very cool video! Please do the Chevrolet Lumina next. I would love to see a video about it
First off, I absolutely love this channel and the videos are fantastic. Great work all around. I'm not sure where the idea that Mazda has struggled since parting with Ford comes from though. I watch alot of Kirk Kriefels channel and he breaks down the quarterly reports for all the Japanese automakers. Mazda is definitely not struggling, they have been smashing year over year sales and even set records during the pandemic. The CX-5 sells like absolute hotcakes. They have moved into the premium sub-luxury space that companies like Buick used to occupy. With their new inline six rear drive platform they are really aiming up-market. They have also partnered with Toyota on hybrid development and opened a joint Toyota-Mazda US manufacturing plant this year where they are building the new CX-50, which I tend to think will sell very well here. It's like an upscale Subaru Forester.
We had 2 probes ,1 red ,1 black. Most beautiful car inside and out and the boot was enormous. We loved them. Shame they don’t still make them
As a Brit, I was both surprised and pleased by the way you pronounced "Jaguar".
I'd love to see a video about the mercury cougar
me too
You don't mean the one that looked like a Celica......
Great video when I first saw the Ford probe at Toronto's car show I thought it was pretty nice looking car especially the gt version. But was happy it never replaced the Mustang, and honestly think if Ford did loose the Mustang all together they would be out of business now?
Agree but Fords big market’s are in there trucks and SUV. Think about it, they are already killing the Sedans off.
nah, the F150 is their big money maker, then the Explorer/Suvs...also they do alot of work / fleet etc sales...cars are really a sideline
@@andrefecteau morning from Hamilton Ontario Canada Andre I'm Peter I agree the F-150 is Ford's bread and butter as they say and how I wish that I was able to drive again. I can't drive anymore because I'm a stroke and cardiac arrest survivor and use a cane for balance when I'm outside walking around and there is a risk of having sezures which is a side effect from the stroke. (At least in my case) stay safe
@@vassa1972 I wish you the best. I'm driving a walker myself after a stroke. Do your therapy, it helps...a little.
Yeah it sucks. The maker of my walker is "Drive".
Cool, thanks for doing this one. You've done 3 of my old cars so far. The Pontiac 6000 and Cutlass Calais were 2 others I owned. Both were shared platforms with other GM cars. So, maybe a Chevy Celebrity or Pontiac Grand Am episode.
Owned em all! Probe, 626, mx6, 99 cougar. Loved every one of those cars. The late 80s/early 90s turbo cars were really quick with a manual transmission.
I saw the concept version of this car when they launched the Tempo/Topaz. It was love at first sight. I eventually ended up with an MX6. They were amazing cars.
8:52 Hope you're wrong on that. Mazda's global sales were down in 2020, mostly in Europe but in North America they held on which is pretty good considering the pandemic. North American sales are also currently up 45% YTD compared to same period last year. I think their partnership with Toyota (and associated electrification) will help.
The 90's Probe GT made my '90 5.0/5 speed LX look old and hoary, but when the light turned green and my foot went down, it was no match.
This is for 5.0 Stang owners who want better performance:
#1: Swap out the stock 3.08 pinion gear with a 3.73. Huge difference and the 5 speed's tall OD makes this the ideal ratio on the hwy, ending the constant 5th to 4th downshifting at 60-70 mph to pass a car. Around town, it feels 50 hp stronger. Don't forget to change the speedo gear!
The 5.0 responds to the same mods as every V-8 does. Open exhausts, tuned headers, underdrive pulleys, larger fuel injection, more spark advance, etc. all add more hp. The stock 5.0 exhaust manifolds are pretty good, durable and quiet.
Notice I didn't mention changing the camshaft until now. By the time you add it up; 16 pushrods, valves, valve springs, water pump, rocker arms, head porting, valve guides etc. it's big bucks. The stock valve train is quite reliable and maintenance free. The gear driven (no chain!) cam pulls strong to 5500 rpm's and will last the life of your engine.
I paid 6K for mine, it was 3 years old. I drove it hard, kept it 9 years and sold it with 172k on the clock for $1500. The motor was still strong, but the car was beat. I had some great times in that 'Stang!
Spock out.
How about doing a history of the Ford LTD history?
This was a great vid bybthe way. ALLLLLL of these vids you have done are! I've watched every single one. 😉
In Europe we also had the fourth generation Ford Fiesta which was sold as a Mazda 121 as well. They didn't even try making them look different. Literally the same car with different badging. They even received the same facelift. They were produced alongside the Fiesta by Ford in Germany and in the UK.
Great video! I had a '97 dodge avenger. I feel it was a similar car. It looked super cool but has horrible reliability issues, which is why I only buy Toyota cars today. Would love a video on it though!
That would have been one of the biggest blunders Ford ever made. Eliminating the Crown Vic was another one.
You don't know what you're talking about. When Ford began the Probe project...as a Mustang replacement....petroleum industry analysts were predicting that the cost of gas in the late 80s was going to rise to $5/gal. That would be $9/gallon in today's money. Had it actually happened, Ford would not be able to give away 5.0 Mustangs. As it turned out, gas prices dropped, the demand for V8 Mustangs was strong so Ford renamed the Mustang replacement and axed the EXP, which was a nasty little car. Smart move on Ford's part. What eventually killed the Probe is what eventually killed off nearly all front-drive sport coupes, an aging population, suffering from obesity that wanted all-wheel drive SUV/CUVs. As for the Crown Vic, its basic design went back to 1979, the car could no longer meet DOT regs. There is very little demand in the US for traditional body on frame, rear-drive sedans. A new Crown Vic design would never have made back its design costs.
@@MrSloika A bit arrogant, are we?
@@MrSloika you say there’s no demand for large V8 sedans, but I guess Dodge/Chrysler corporation didn’t get the message
I currently own a 90 probe! GL 5 speed with manual windows and locks lol. I’ve driven it for 4 years now as a college/work car and put over 60k on it and never had a problem with it currently at 240k. One of the most fun cars I’ve ever had. Great one gas and gets a lot of compliments looks to this day. My dad used to have a 89 lx with the digital dash and power everything what a cool car that was.
The first Probe was a game changer. The wrap around rear dark window on a white body was breathtaking. This is back when new cars were still the 'wheels on a square box' look from the 70s.
My first car was a 2006 Mazda 6 V6 Fully loaded grey with a spoiler it handled so well and it flewwww I actually loved that car and really miss it. I had to give it up when going to college. I’m looking and thinking about getting another Mazda I love them
The Probe and MX-6, particularly the second generation cars, were stunning to look at when they came out. After nearly a decade and a half of Giugiaro-inspired boxes, the cars looked very fresh and sleek. I thought the Probe GT with that 2.5 V6 would have been an excellent replacement for my 20+ year old Firebird, which was rotting badly and had no a/c. Mazda remains an underrated brand to this day; my 88 Ranger had a Mazda five speed that never gave me any trouble, and my 2001 Miata remains the most reliable car I've ever owned.
I used to own a black 95 Probe GT with the 2.5L KL-DE V6 and a 5 speed manual transmission. It was a great car, except for the tendency for white knuckle driving on wet roads. I'm not sure if it was the design of the car, or the tires, but it was flat out scary during moderate to heavy rains, I could feel traction breaking loose quite often. On dry roads, it cornered like it was on rails. The engine also had a almost VTEC like sudden increase in HP at around 4,500 rpms when the VRIS kicked in. Engine is very well built. It survived an "Jiffy Lube" mishap when the wrong threaded oil filter was put on the engine, causing it to fall off down the road, starving the engine of oil.
The 2G Probe was my first car. Thanks for this.
Attention: I’m actively looking for a 1990-1992 Probe GT (manual only)! Please reply if you are selling one or if you see one for sale!!
Great work buddy. Your videos are awesome.
well researched summary! - I may have missed it but the 97-ish Escort was based on the Mazda 232.
My roomate used to let me drive her probe with the 5 speed manual. I do remember thinking DAMN this is pretty quick!
I had a 94 white GT, and even though it was an automatic it was still a pretty fun car with excellent handling, great gas mileage and a lot of versatility with that big hatchback. Very reliable as well. And I look back now 20+ years later and it really has aged much better than a lot of cars of that generation. I've been trying to find a clean and unabused second gen up here in Canada and it's basically impossible. That boysenberry color is beautiful. And I think they even made kind of a peach colored one which looks pretty wild with the chrome swirly wheels. If you get a chance out there to find a clean one, I would grab it!
I had 3 Probes; a 1989, 1990 and a 1995. Loved them all - the the 89 was my favorite
I bought a 1995 Probe SE in 2014 for $1200. It was an Oregon car so the body was in great shape. That is except for rust beginning around the windshield. Fun little car. I sold it for $300 5 years later. It was leaking oil, radiator fluid, and trans fluid.
1994 probe gt 5spd here... 220,000 and had it since new...its been a daily driver and my only car for the last 27yrs... also the Only new car ive ever owned...been decent, lots of issues over time but Ive tackled them all..if you cant do ur own repairs, this is Not the car for you! fun to drive but is so eclipsed by almost Any of todays cars as far as performance and handling..was good in its day but cars nowadays are many levels above this ...what it is cool for is to feel the nostalgia of a naturally aspirated, 100% analog car with road feel, good seating, nice cockpit and a sweet sounding engine, though no longer fast today, it Still sounds better than most cars on the market as it races to redline...And it has looks that are Unique in a world of lookalike clones..I still walk away and look back at it when I park it!
Great video.
Regarding the name, besides the concept cars, it was also closely linked to the Mustang name. There was a racecar in IMSA GTP called the 'Mustang Probe GTP' in 1985 and 1986.
Not sure if true, but I heard that when it was slated to carry the Mustang name, they planned to put the top model as the Mustang Probe. So the name carried over easily.
My Grandmother (ex-Ford Employee) owned a first gen Probe GT in Michigan and thinking it would be a future classic she stored it in a shed in the upper peninsula of Michigan. I checked the car out about two years ago and could tell the car was in poor condition because of the salted roads and she recently sold it (Spring 2021) for $800. As it was pulled out of the shed (must of been in there 25 years) it was very rusty and the floor pan was falling out. Possible parts car I suppose. It was a VERY cool and fun car to drive when new and the car magazines at the time called it the best FWD car to date.
You should do a video on the Fiero!
In the early 90's I ended up renting one of these (gen 2) for a week when I was traveling for work. I remember this car was a blast to drive (even though it had an automatic transmission). Many years later I ended up buying a gen 2 Miata - with an even greater fun factor.
I worked at the Mazda plant from the start. Mazda did buy the site of the Michigan castings plant but did not tool it for production. A new plant was built there next to the old plant. About 10 years some minor production was done at the old plant.
My cousin had a 2nd gen GT and it was a cool looking car, I still think it holds up today. It really needed a stronger engine though. Too often companies make "sports" cars on looks alone but advertise them racing down a highway but they never deliver on that and people look elsewhere, and sales tank.
Mitsubishi Galant deserves a tribute. Once an interesting competitor to Camry and Accord, and then a frumpy rental car standard.
The first car I ever purchased with a five speed. I had a base 2.2 model where if you saw one come up behind you at night, it had the exact same light pattern as the Porsche 944. Also it's gauge cluster was connected to the steering wheel just as the Porsche 928!
I thought about getting one once but I couldn’t get over the name probe, glad I got a mustang.
I had a Mazda GLC because I thought I needed an economy car, traded it in on a Mazda 626 because i really liked the looks and it was a great car the 9 years I drove it. I traded it in on a new 1989 Ford Probe. Loved that car, pretty quick for what it had for an engine and got 40 mpg more than once on long road trips. Didn't have some of the querks some front drive cars had like torque steer when standing on the gas leaving a stop light. Then traded it in on a 1997 Mustang GT and it was a very good car also, loved the exhaust note. Traded it in on a 2003 BMW Z4 that we are still driving today.
The first one I saw was gold and thought it was gonna be a competitor to Supras, Z and Rx7. Eventually finding out it was just a sporty car. I always liked the Eagle Talon TSI the best.
Unless I've missed it, can you do a video on the Pontiac Fiero?
I really love your channel, but if I can make one suggestion: would you consider using different music tracks on different videos or even no music? I just went through 3 of your videos and by the third it was hard to make it through due to the repetitiveness of the same looping music track used in every video. Hopefully you don’t take this as a knock on the quality of your content, it’s great! Just something to consider as your channel continues to grow.
I worked at a wholesale car auction in 1995 and the current for the time Probe and Contour felt like the same exact car when you drove them. The Contour in Europe was called the Mondeo.
Too bad Ford didn’t import the Escort Cosworth to the US because besides being a good performer it looked really cool.
And today Ford slaps the Mustang name on a SUV EV. They never learn.
Heres my take. When Porche did the same thing in 2002 with they Cayenne the porche fans said the same thing, in fact they still are 19 years later, "blasfamy its not a real porche!!! Suv noooo! Sacreligous!!!!" Meanwhile it did nothing to dilute the porche brand or the rest of their lineup. The mach e is a mustang the same way the Cayenne is a Porche. Still fast still cool. Deal with it.
@@Henry_Jones maybe it’s fast, but it’s only cool if you’re a soccer mom that wants to tell all her friends she’s got a Mustang. It’s not a cool car, and it’s ugly as shit
@@Henry_Jones And the Cayenne is still the ugliest and least cool thing in their lineup.
As a teen in the 90s I wanted a probe cause I thought they were cool looking but after owning a Ford previously I passed. I wound up getting a eclipse and loved that car.
I Really wish Ford would’ve put That SHO 3.0V6 in The 92-97 Probe! Those are Beautiful Cars till this day!
My friend had a v6 gt with a muffler delete... sounded amazing... and pretty quick car too...
I really enjoy your videos. Can I suggest Isuzu passenger vehicles in America? O feel they're largely forgotten but they had quirky stuff like the Space Cab and Impulse.
was John Colletti at SVT that really saved the Mustang in 94...he started the whole "write in campaign"...bought a new GT/5.0 in 94, a fantastic Mustang compared to the older generations when they finally put a decent suspension and brakes on it..with Mach460 stereo it ruled...back then
My old cars: 81' Ford Bronco, 82' Ford Granada, 84' Honda Accord, 89' Honda Prelude S, 97' Acura RL, 98' Chevy Monte Carlo 3.8, & 🥁 09' Jetta SportWagen! 🏁
I had been working as a mechanic at the Ford dealer since 1983 when Ford surprised us with the Probe in 1988. I say "surprised" because at least a year before a new model is released or a major change is made to an existing model, at least one mechanic is offered new model training for that vehicle. Repair manuals and special tools are sent to each dealer well in advance so the service department can become familiar with the car before its release.
None of that preceded the Probe. I do remember getting the shop manuals a couple of months before the dealership received its first Probe. Afterward, Ford continued sending out updates to place inside the service manuals; especially for the wiring diagrams. Ford/Mazda must have printed the wiring diagrams long before they built the car because there were at least 20 updates for us to insert into the shop manuals. This was long before computers when updates to shop manuals were a pain in the a$$.
My first car was a '94 Probe GT. Loved it. Smooth Mazda engine coupled with North American styling.
I had a 97 Mazda MX6 when I lived in the UK, was a solid car with a decent V6 engine for its time.
I am one of the many Ford Mustang loyalists that wrote to Ford and told them how horrible a mistake it would be to kill the Mustang.They actually wrote me back like 5yrs later thanking me (us) letter writing loyalists for voicing our opinion and saving the Mustang! That seems to get left out in a lot of these documentaries involving the Probe.
Didn’t know that Ford Probe was in Back to the Future. But we didn’t get Ford Probe in Sweden. Here we had Ford Sierra. So I have never seen a Ford Probe. But my first car was a Mazda 626. We did get Ford Cougars here but I haven’t seen one for years.