Ford Probe

The Ford Probe began as a collaboration with Mazda and was famously considered as a front-wheel-drive replacement for the Mustang. Public outcry preserved the Mustang's RWD layout, and the Probe launched in 1989 as its own model, sharing a platform with the Mazda MX-6. The first generation featured pop-up headlights and a range of 4-cylinder and V6 engines, while the 1993 redesign introduced a much rounder, more modern aesthetic and a desirable 2.5L Mazda V6 for the GT model.

Today, the Probe is gaining traction as an accessible entry into '90s car collecting. Enthusiasts are drawn to its unique history, distinctive styling, and the reliability of its Mazda-sourced powertrains. The second-generation GT is the most sought-after model, prized for its smooth V6 and balanced handling. Its relative obscurity compared to contemporaries like the Eclipse or Integra makes it a standout at car meets.

The market for the Probe is small but growing, with an average price just over $10,000 reflecting the increasing value of clean, low-mileage survivors. Most Probes were used as daily drivers, so finding an unmodified, well-maintained example is the biggest challenge for buyers. As nostalgia for the 1990s intensifies, the best examples will likely continue to appreciate.

Prices range from $3,000 for project cars to $20,500 for pristine, low-mileage examples.