Is Ford Probe a Mazda MX6?

The Ford Probe and the Mazda MX-6 are indeed very similar cars, as they share the same basic building blocks and are mechanically identical. Both cars were manufactured at joint-venture plants by AutoAlliance in Flat Rock, Michigan for the North American market, and by Mazda Japan for Asian and European markets. The Probe succeeded the Ford EXP, and both generations of the Probe were derived from the front-wheel drive Mazda G platform that also underpinned the Mazda Capella. The MX-6 replaced the Mazda 626 Coup, although it continued to share the same chassis.
The Ford Probe and the Mazda MX-6 are virtually the same car, with only a few differences. The Probe GT is tailored for a hard-charging driver’s car, with world-class ergonomics and grip, while the MX-6 is described as the mild-mannered, Clark Kentish twin, geared for enthusiasts who enjoy leisurely drives and car maintenance on warm Sunday afternoons.
In summary, while there are some differences in the branding and marketing of the two cars, they are essentially the same vehicle with minor variations in design and tuning.
If you have any further questions or need more information, feel free to ask!

What is the Mazda version of the Ford Probe?

The Mazda MX-6 of this time frame was on the same chassis as the Probe, used the same engine as a Probe, and much of the interior was similar as well.

Is Mazda MX-6 rare?

The MX-6 has gained something of a cult following among car enthusiasts, making them rarer to be found in the wild. Here are 10 reasons why the Mazda MX-6 is still so sought after.

Was the Ford Probe designed by a woman?

Vandermolen later headed interior and exterior design efforts for the 1993 Ford Probe. Mimi Vandermolen studied design at Ontario College of Art and joined Ford Motor Company in 1970.

What does Mazda MX stand for?

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.

Why did Mazda leave Ford?

The partnership between Ford and Mazda was strongest in the 1980s and 1990s, where most badge-engineered models were produced. However, disagreements about direction and a significant recession led Ford to begin selling off its interest in Mazda during the 21st century.

Which Ford has Mazda engine?

Ford has developed an Atkinson cycle variant of the Mazda L5 engine for use in the Ford Fusion Hybrid, Ford Escape Hybrid and Ford Maverick Hybrid vehicles.

Why was the MX-6 discontinued?

It’s rare: Mazda discontinued the MX-6 only four years after kicking off its second generation because sales weren’t great. 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).

Was the Ford Probe supposed to be a Mustang?

The Ford Probe is a discontinued coupe that had an illustrious beginning and an inglorious end. It started off as a concept car that was eventually designed to replace the Ford Mustang but was instead marketed on its own, competing against the Mustang, until the Mustang unceremoniously won.

Why did Ford name the Probe?

By 1988, the plan was ready to be executed. Dubbed the Probe, a name borrowed from a past concept car, the coupe made a smashing debut at the Chicago Auto Show, which in turn lead to six-figure interest from dealers and potential buyers—momentum that carried the car through its first few years of production.

What is the Ford Probe based on?

Mazda GD platform
The first generation Ford Probe was based on the Mazda GD platform, and was powered by a 2.2 L SOHC 12-valve 4-cylinder Mazda F2 engine. It debuted in 1988 for the 1989 model year and was produced until 1992 in the United States in Flat Rock, Michigan.