Ford Probe

The Ford Probe is a liftback (i.e., hatchback) coupé manufactured and marketed by Ford for model years 1988-1997 over two generations. The Probe was a byproduct of Ford's collaboration with its Japanese partner Mazda, and both generations derived from the front-wheel drive Mazda G platform of the Mazda Capella.

The Probe succeeded the Ford EXP, and the instrument cluster of the first-generation Probe and pop-up headlight mechanisms were borrowed from the FC Series RX-7.

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 the Toyota Celica. Ford's marketing team deemed the front-wheel drive platform would have lower production costs and would be acceptable (borrowed Mazda GD and GE platforms)as front drive had gained considerably in consumer popularity.

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.